IVHQ Construction and Renovation Program in Guatemala

I was in contact with Kaila and Lina and I was very satisfied with their knowledge and quick response to my questions and returning my phone calls or messages, I thought the preparation resources were in-depth and very helpful, and I was impressed with the safety tips, and information available for the country I was visiting and working in. I think I received more from this experience than what I gave, I only stayed a week and I strongly suggest to all reading this to book 2 weeks as most projects won't get completed in a week, and there is so much to see, so I had no time to see what I wanted, my fault, next time I will book 2 weeks! Among my favorite moments of this experience are working with my fellow mates and watching the project come together, sharing stories of our lives and countries while working or on break or traveling to the job site, plus meeting all my new friends. This experience made me understand that I am spoiled with what I have in my own country and surroundings, and I should never complain about anything regarding material or economic situations, I saw a new culture and realized that people in different parts of the world do not have the resources or tools that we have, we have to share our wealth and goods and time to make this world equal. If you're still considering volunteering, DO IT, if you have thought about it, then understand that God put that thought in your brain to go and help others, that is what we are called to do, it is not by happenstance that you are thinking about it, I guarantee when you have completed your mission and are home again you will wish you were still there or you are ready to plan your next volunteer adventure, do not let regrets ruin your future, do it while you still have your health.

My 2 week adventure to Guatemala far exceeded my expectations! First and foremost, iVHQ was beyond thourough in every aspect. No questions were left unanswered and nothing was left unsaid. They did a wonderful job at providing essential information and details regarding any expectations, making it very comfortable to trust I would be taken care of upon arrival. The people of Guatemala through my experience we lovely. The work I did was genuinely appreciated. What I got in return, irreplaceable. I was warmly welcomed into the homes and work places that I visited. I became a fixture in these peoples daily lives. My walk to the bus station, my seat on the bus, where I stood in line, shopping in the local markets etc. Not once did I feel threatened or unsafe. It's like anywhere else you go in the world. Always be aware of your surroundings, respect the lifestyle, open your mind and heart, and give what you want in return. Lend a helping hand and experience this yourself. You will touch many lives and in turn your life will be forever changed!

For the last two weeks of my time in Guate, I worked at a construction project, 15 min outside of Antigua. We mixed cement and concrete, we laid bricks, and built rebar. It was really awesome! I'm not a construction worker- I'm far from it, but I really wanted to help create something that can be used for a long time, and to helpful in anyway that I could. The program was super organized and really cool! Everyone here is really nice and friendly! I highly recommend this program to anyone who is willing to work hard for a rewarding experience!