Help out at our beautiful school in the woods.

United States

5

Overall, I really loved my time at the school, especially working with the students because they are so friendly and welcoming to the volunteers. Since Poptún is not a very popular tourist location, it's a great place for cultural immersion. I learned a lot about Guatemala from the students, teachers, staff, and locals. The only negative I had was that I expected to do more work in the "eco garden," but the garden wasn't being used while I was there. I think it would've helped if I had a more in-depth initial meeting with more detailed plans going into the experience.

1 day ago

Spain

5

Volunteering at the school was a great experience. You easily feel at home and the kids are kind, welcoming and very curious, which makes it even a better experience.

27 days ago

Belgium

5

I would recommend volunteering at the school if you are an innovative person who would like to experience the culture and its school system. I was given the opportunity to run a project where I gave pedagogical training to the teachers, from which both I and the school learned a lot! In addition, I had the opportunity to experience the warmth of all the people in poptun, the teachers, students and families in Poptun. For example, I went to the zumba classes, at dinner with a family and I was given the opportunity to go to a public school for 1 day. Thanks to everyone and definitely Mishelle!

3 months ago

New Zealand

5

Working at the little school was one of the highlights of our trip so far. The school is nestled in a beautiful pine forest with squirrels, hummingbird and much more. The kids were so lovely and full of life. They adopted us like we'd always been there and loved to get us to join in with lunchtime games. The staff were very welcoming too, inviting us to different activities after school and in the weekends. Overall it was a real pleasure working here and I hope we made some positive impacts along the way. A big thank you to our amazing hosts, Michelle, Juan and family for making it possible!

4 months ago

New Zealand

5

This was our first volunteer experience and it was wonderful. You get a lot of freedom about how you contribute to the project. We helped with English classes, teacher training, and created a volunteer handbook. The people are so lovey! We don't know much Spanish but they were very forgiving. They offered to take us on walks, a river trip, and to Zumba. The property is gorgeous. The cabin is surrounded by nature and animals, very tranquil. The meals are great. We want to come back one day! I really recommend it. The intention of the school is beautiful. You won't regret going here.

4 months ago

United States

5

This was an incredible experience. Mishelle and her family went out of their way to make me feel comfortable. They helped me sort out transportation to Poptún, picked me up from the bus stop, and invited me to dinner. All of the teachers and kids were very excited to have me there. Bridget, one of the teachers, is studying to be an aesthetician and is practicing her services. You should ask her about it, she does hair and manicure/pedicure services and gave me a really nice pedicure. Overall, I can only say good things. Only thing I will say, you must be ok with animals/insects!

5 months ago

Mishelle replied

Thank you for the time you dedicated to our project. It was really nice having you here with us.

Spain

5

We loved being part of the volunteer program in Poptún! For two weeks, we felt completely welcomed by the school and its the school. It was a beautiful experience to create a video that will help the school showcase itself, as well as to spend time with the children. Everything was made easy for us—from staying in a cozy wooden cabin in the forest to enjoying delicious meals prepared by the school's cook and receiving countless invitations to connect with the local the school. We are incredibly happy to have contributed in our own small way, but even more grateful for their kindness.

5 months ago

United States

5

We had the most amazing time in Poptún with this project. This project is truly changing the future of Poptún - education, empowerment, gender equality, health… this school is doing it all. And its fearless leader, Mishelle, is the most wonderful person. We spent our mornings assisting English class for children ages 2 - 14, and in the evenings we helped with adult the school English classes. Logistics: The school is located on the edge of Poptún and with the bikes provided, you can easily explore the town/grocery shop/go to the gym/etc. 10/10 we would recommend this experience!

6 months ago

Canada

4

My experience was generally quite good at the school. My contribution the first week was mainly through video making, and observing how to school worked to set up projects with the kids. The 2nd and 3rd week, I worked more with the children and teachers, teaching music, meditation and storytelling. The kids are lovely and teachers absolutely dedicated to their work. I would recommend this experience more if you are an extroverted person, who can go with the flow in a differently organised system. For me, that was the hardest part since I am more introverted, sensitive and organised.

3 months ago

Netherlands

5

Volunteering at the school was an incredibly special experience! the school in Poptun welcomed me with open arms, and I'm so grateful to Mishelle and Juan for making me feel like part of the family. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the children—whether it was baby gym, primary school activities, or collaborating with the other teachers. The highlight of my time there was definitely being able to participate in the vibrant Christmas celebrations that Poptun has to offer. It definitely helps to speak Spanish, and be okay with a cabin in the woods.

8 months ago

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