High School Community Service & Volunteering Programs in Guatemala

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

At dawn, a howler monkey cries from the branch of a giant cieba tree. In the Cuchumatanes Mountains, a young woman rises to grind corn on a stone petate. Along Avenida Reforma, street children juggle oranges for change as businessmen tuck into air-conditioned office buildings. Investigate issues of social justice amidst Guatemala’s diverse landscapes and communities while improving your Spanish language skills through personalized instruction. Our summer abroad course begins in Antigua, where we explore colorful markets, hike through coffee plantations, and begin our first Spanish lessons. We ride the infamous Chicken Bus—a colorful and chromed-out version of a 1990s Blue Byrd school bus—to the sparkling shores of sacred Lake Atitlan and settle in for a week of homestays at our program base in the town of San Juan la Laguna. In the mornings, we participate in intensive language instruction at a local school. In the afternoons, we immerse ourselves in Tz’utujil culture through independent projects and time with gracious host families. We have 2, 4, and 6-week options available for this program.

School the World's Student Service Program provides an inspiring experience for high school students. While traveling to Honduras, Panama, or Guatemala, you experience a new culture, make new friends, fulfill service hours, and create lasting relationships with children in the community, all while building a school or a playground! Each group raises funds and participates in the final construction phase of a new school building or playground. Students spend most of the week in a community, working on the project, and interacting with the children, forming strong bonds through mutual learning. Cultural exposure and understanding are an essential part of our program. During their trip, students experience the beauty of the local culture. By participating, World Changers open their eyes and minds to the deep and complicated causes underlying poverty in rural communities. You walk away with first-hand insights into the realities of developing countries and experience the power of education in people’s lives. 2026 Dates • February 15-22, 2026 (Guatemala) • March 14-21, 2026 (Panama) • April 19-26, 2026 (Panama) • July 7-14, 2026 (Guatemala) • July 22-30, 2026 (Honduras)

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.