From our Executive Director

Dear Service-Learning Group,

We are grateful you have chosen to spend a week of your lives serving and loving the people of Guatemala City. We are honored to introduce you to our friends and facilitate what we believe will be a significant time in your lives.

Your week will be filled with encounters with dozens of children who will be so happy to see you and families who will welcome you into their homes. You will meet with the directors of each of our programs and the people they serve. You will see tremendous needs, and you will spend time with people who have given their lives to meeting those needs.

You will quickly see that these marginalized communities are places filled with brokenness as a result of poverty, but you will also see it as a place filled with so much hope.

We ask you to approach your time with us from a posture of humility, seeking to take in as much as you can. We ask you to listen to the stories of people’s lives and enter into their stories. We ask you to look at the brokenness and the hope. Don’t look away from the pain you will experience – look at it longer than you are comfortable with.

And we ask you to embrace the people you meet and allow them to become a part of your life story.
Thank you for serving with us. We pray that God will use this time to tattoo His love for the marginalized children and families of Guatemala City on your heart.

Grace and peace,

Chal Knox

Our Hope for Your Trip

We hope you will enter into meaningful, ongoing relationships with the children, families, and community as well. Whether focusing on a specific project, playing with the children, or visiting a home, we encourage you to begin by listening to their stories. 

One of our core values is “Deep Relationships.” We believe in listening, knowing, and honoring the stories of community members, staff, donors, and partners.

As we schedule your time in the community, we will create as much time as possible for your group members to interact with the people who live and serve there, capturing their stories and learning as they share their lives. We believe we have more to learn from the people who live and serve throughout the community than what we could ever teach them. Your time in the Guatemala City community will be just as much, if not more, about learning as it is about doing.

Allow yourself and your group members to be interwoven in the beautiful brokenness that exists in the lives of the people, and open your mind, heart, and soul to what God will show you.

A quote from one of our favorite books says, “We believe that God’s voice, like the voice of Abel — whose very name means vapor or breath — is speaking through the bloodstained ground of the people and places where suffering and death is a way of life. In fact, it is our hunch that God’s voice is clearest and most strikingly Godlike in these places. In this sense, theology from below is to the Church as research and development is to business – when we learn to hear the voice of God in the vaporous holes of the world, we learn how to make sense of His voice, and perhaps even to occupy one or two of the holes we stumble into.” (Kris Rocke & Joel Van Dyke, Geography of Grace).

Another one of our core values is “Dignity.” We believe all people have inherent worth, with unique gifts given by God to share with others. The people of Guatemala City were created in God’s image.

Finally, we invite you to fall in love with the people, their lives, and their stories. In the process of loving those you encounter, God’s love will transform you.

We invite you to roll up your sleeves and to get your hands dirty — to embrace the messiness that accompanies humanity, remembering that “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

“It is our distinct privilege to be in a community with people in hard places who live as God’s enfleshed poetry” – Geography of Grace

It is important to remember that God is not a God from our culture or our comfort zone… but a God that is boundless, not American or Guatemalan… but a God that makes all places holy.

Our Unique Work

Lemonade International exists to partner with local leaders as they facilitate community development programs in solidarity with the people of Guatemala City.

Working in one context, we have the unique advantage of entering into deep relationships with the people we are serving.

You will have the opportunity to walk through the community as guests, as you join our staff and witness the impact of the Centers through house visits, walking in the community, and time with the staff.

There are many avenues for you to share your experience by engaging your family, friends, co-workers, schools, and congregations.

• Sponsor a Child by committing to a monthly donation of $80, or share the sponsorship of the child with another family or individual by committing to a donation of $40 a month.
• Sponsor a Teacher by committing to a monthly donation of $100, or share the sponsorship of the teacher with another family or individual by committing to a donation of $50 a month.
• Give to our community relief fund to meet the urgent and unexpected needs of the vulnerable individuals and families in the community.

About Guatemala

Guatemala is a country in Central America, bordered by Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. It has an estimated population of 17.8 million. Its capital city is Guatemala City, the largest city in Central America, with a population estimated at 3.6 million.

About 40% of the population is Ladino, also called Mestizo (mixed Amer-Indian and Spanish). Whites (primarily of Spanish descent, but also Italian, German, British, and Scandinavian) make up about 16% of the population. Amer-Indian populations include the K’iche’ 9.1%, Kaqchikel 8.4%, Mam 7.9%, and Q’eqchi 6.3%. 8.6% of the population is “other Mayan”, 0.2% is indigenous non-Mayan, making the indigenous community in Guatemala about 40% of the population.

In 1996, a thirty-six-year-long civil war ended in Guatemala. Throughout the years of the civil war, most of the violence took place in rural areas of the country. As a result of the violence, many people fled to the city to escape, and with nowhere to live, many staked a claim to land in such places as the ravine that is known as La Limonada and other marginalized areas throughout Guatemala City. Although the civil war has ended, the violence has not. There are currently more violent deaths daily in Guatemala than during the time of the civil war.

Commitment of Lemonade International Hosts in Guatemala

We are fortunate to have staff members in Guatemala who understand the culture. Our team is there to serve you and will commit to the following:

• Providing clear communication regarding the agenda for the week and any changes that may arise in the plans throughout the week.
• Greet you at the airport with transportation.
• Conducting an orientation for your group on the first night of your stay at the Guest House.
• Ensure the Guest House is prepared for your arrival (including food, sleeping arrangements, bedding, towels, etc.)
• Make preparations for any service projects your group may be involved with so you’re ready to go when you arrive.
• Providing transportation, interpreters, and everything necessary to equip you for effective service throughout your trip.

Expectations of your Group Leader

Your role as a group leader is key to ensuring a smooth and meaningful experience for your group in Guatemala. We have carefully considered your role and ask that you make your strongest effort to commit to the following:

• Arrange a meeting with the Service Learning Trip Coordinator
• Be the primary contact person for us to communicate with concerning trip details.
• Represent your group as the liaison for Lemonade International staff in the US and Guatemala.
• Organize pre- and post-trip meetings for your group to prepare and process together.
• Submit all forms and fees to Lemonade International by the designated deadlines before the trip.
• Communicate with one designated contact person in the US so they are aware of your group’s safe arrival.
• Lead your group in brief discussions (or delegate to other group members) each night of your trip in Guatemala.
• Commit to reading the book “Geography of Grace” before your trip.
• Set the tone for your group to approach the community with a posture of humility and eagerness to respectfully enter into the story of the families you meet.
• Complete the post-trip survey and provide sufficient feedback regarding your group’s experience in Guatemala to Lemonade International’s Service Learning Trip Coordinator.

Food and Lodging

Groups stay at the Guest House. We worked hard to find a nice house and neighborhood, therefore, it is expected that you will be respectful of the guidelines of the neighborhood.

• The Guest House can accommodate up to 10 people per group (including the group leader)
• It is not safe to drink the tap water in Guatemala. Filtered water will be provided at the Guest House.
• Each day (Monday-Saturday), the Guest House staff will serve breakfast (cereals, eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, fruit, coffee, etc).
• Each day (Monday-Thursday), the Guest House staff will prepare a sack lunch (sandwich, chips, apple, cookies, water).
• Each day (Monday-Friday), you will have an authentic Guatemalan meal prepared for you.
• Your time in Guatemala will consist of one travel day (usually on Friday) to experience Guatemalan culture and to visit a market where souvenirs can be purchased. Each group member should plan on covering the cost of lunch, snacks, and souvenirs on the travel day.
• Important note: Please notify the Lemonade International Host of any food allergies or special dietary needs for any members of your group.

Transportation

Flights:

As you book flights for your team, please keep in mind that your arrival flights (Sunday) and departure flights (Saturday) should be scheduled as close to noon as possible. We recommend using World Hopper Ministry Travel to book your flights.

On your flight, you will be given a customs form which requires a “Foreseen Address” in Guatemala. The following is the address that should be documented on the form: 26 Calle 15-56 zona 11, Colonia Las Charcas, Ciudad de Guatemala, Guatemala.

Guatemala Airport Information:

Your group will arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. A representative holding a sign with the Lemonade International logo will be there to greet you.

When you arrive, please stay inside the airport. We will be waiting for you on the left side of the arrivals area. Our team will monitor your flight for any delays or issues to ensure a smooth pickup.

Important Note:
All donations for the Center, as well as any items intended for the program, must be packed in your checked luggage, not in your carry-on. This is to avoid any complications with customs or immigration.

Travel in Guatemala:

• Transportation is provided throughout your trip for official activities.

• One day of your visit will include transportation to and from a pre-approved cultural destination to experience Guatemalan culture.

• The vehicle and driver are not available for personal outings or additional destinations beyond:

  • The airport

  • The Center

  • One pre-approved tourist site

• Transportation to the Center is only provided during program hours. The vehicle/driver is not authorized to take your group to the Center when it is closed.

Logistics & Trip Details

Group Size:

Groups need to be at least 4 and limited to a total of 10 members (including the group leader)

Packing: Please limit your personal belongings to one piece of luggage and a carry-on.

Contacting Family Members & Friends When in Guatemala:

We ask that each group establish a primary contact person in the US who will then contact family members of each group member. Internet access is available at the Lemonade Guest House, so you will be able to communicate with family and friends as long as the internet service is working (it can be sporadic at times in Guatemala).

Computer Usage:

It is up to the group leader to determine if your group members will be permitted to bring computers. Wi-Fi is available at the Lemonade Guest House, and it is advisable to bring a 3-prong to 2-prong adapter with you for plugging in laptops. Lemonade International is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items while groups are in Guatemala.

Spending Money:

We recommend that you bring Debit/Credit Cards or US Dollars bills in perfect condition (no ink, wrinkled, or ripped), no more than $100.

Security Suggestion:

You are encouraged to register the members of your group with the US Embassy in Guatemala. Follow instructions on the US State Department website. Registration allows you to record information about your upcoming trip for assistance in case of an emergency or natural disaster.

Immunizations & Health-Related Concerns:

Please check the CDC website for updates regarding travel to Guatemala. We strongly encourage each individual to consult a family physician for any suggested immunizations. Each person should be in good physical condition at the time of the trip. Walking long distances on uneven terrain and up and down hills is required.

Insurance:

Each group member is strongly encouraged to research their current medical insurance policy to verify that there is adequate coverage for travel and medical emergencies outside of the US. Those who do not have adequate coverage are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance that will provide coverage while in Guatemala. HTH Travel provides excellent rates for out-of-country travel.

Cemetery Tour:

We have a partnership with Teddy Torres, a Guatemalan grassroots leader. As part of your trip, we will set aside an afternoon with him to lead your group in a walking tour of the national cemetery in Guatemala City. The tour includes a reflection that helps us understand some of Guatemala’s wounds through a historical and theological lens. This is a great opportunity to seek to understand the broader context of what you will see and experience in Guatemala City.

Weather:

The following website provides a helpful resource for expected weather in Guatemala City at various times of the year: Guatemala City Weather

Trip Cost - Per Person

What is the Cost of the Trip?

While groups have a great and positive impact on the community, we want to make sure that they do not put a strain on the budget and full schedules of the staff members in Guatemala. The costs covered by group members ensure the in-country staff can fully engage with the group, making the time a blessing for all.

Application Fee: $100 per group (non-refundable) 

This fee secures your dates on our Service Learning Trips calendar and is based on the group size you anticipate at the time you secure your dates. The application fee must be paid 3 months before your trip.

Cost Per Night: $50 per person/$300 per week

The nightly cost of staying in Guatemala covers all meals, safe drinking water, housing, utilities, free wi-fi, and ground transportation. Because your security is a priority to us, all groups stay at the Guest House, which offers safe, clean lodging and simple bunk beds. Staff from the GuestHouse cleans the house and prepares authentic and healthy meals for the groups.

Cost of In-Country Staff & U.S. Administrative Support: $295 per person

The in-country cost covers the facilitation and coordination provided by the staff members in our Guatemala office. Our group hosts will meet your group at the airport and will provide transportation throughout your trip. They will also provide in-country leadership, project coordination, translation, and any additional support needed throughout your time in Guatemala. This also covers the cost associated with the finances and administrative support provided by your Service Learning Trip Coordinator.

Program Support Fee: $300 per person

Hosting Service Learning Trips is one way we are able to support the work in Guatemala. This fee provides essential assistance to the programs in the communities in Guatemala City.

Each group is responsible for the cost of airline tickets, estimated between $450 and $800. We also suggest personal spending money of $100-200 per person to cover souvenirs, gifts for family members, and snacks.

Total Trip Cost: $895 (not including airline tickets)

Non-refundable deposit: $450 — due 60 days before date of arrival in Guatemala

Non-refundable balance: $445 — due 30 days before date of arrival

Mail checks to:

11845 Retail Drive #1017,
Wake Forest, NC 27587

Please make checks payable to Lemonade International.

Payment can also be made by credit card here:

Online Payments

Please expect a 3% credit card fee in addition to the invoice total when paying online. Please write your group name in the comments section.”

In Guatemala

• All group members must always be with someone from the staff of Lemonade International or partner organizations during their time in Guatemala City.
• Your group will experience difficult stories and situations during your time in the community. Please be sensitive about when and where you share your reactions to these experiences.
• If your group members have gifts for the children (whether the gifts are from a group member or from someone who isn’t part of the group), we ask that you inform your Lemonade International host to make arrangements for the gifts to be given to the children.
• Please refrain from giving any money directly to anyone on the streets of Guatemala City. We don’t give any money to people in the streets and do not encourage doing so.
• Please do not make any promises to people from the community or our team on the ground in Guatemala about what you plan on doing when you return home, when you will be coming back to the country, or what you plan on doing to help them. Even if you have the best of intentions, it is important not to make promises. On the contrary, we encourage you to share your ideas with our Lemonade team in Guatemala.

Trip Timeline & Preparation

6 Months Prior to Departure:

• Communication will be initiated by Lemonade International’s Service Learning Trip Coordinator to set up group agenda, group meetings, etc.
• Promote trip to friends, family, church, etc. (Upon request, a half-sheet flyer design including your scheduled dates can be provided to you).
• Compile a preliminary list of people you would like to join you on the trip and personally invite them.
• Set up one to two fundraisers to help fund your trip. Some ideas for successful fundraisers include serving Guatemalan-style dinner and charging $10 per person, selling baked goods, hosting a donation- based car wash, partnering with a local restaurant to receive a percentage of sales on a specific date, yard sales, setting up an online personalized fundraising campaign called a “Lemonade Stand”. The ideas are endless!
• Begin reading “Geography of Grace.”
• Begin researching flights to Guatemala City, Guatemala. Purchase tickets as soon as you find a good deal and your group is finalized. Important Note: If individuals will be purchasing their own tickets please be sure all tickets are for the same dates and departure/arrival times and are scheduled to arrive in and depart Guatemala as close to noon as possible.

Recommended Packing List

Items to Bring:

• Toiletries
• Sneakers/Tennis Shoes to wear in the community
• Weather appropriate jeans, pants, or long skirts (not required) to wear in the community (we recommend one pair of jeans to wear every day in the community)
• Shorts (can only be worn in the Guest House)
• Short-sleeved shirts to wear out in the community
• Sweatshirt – especially for mornings and evenings, clothing and shoes for outings (1-2 outfits)
• Comfortable clothing to wear during the evenings at the Lemonade Guest House
• Pajamas
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Anti-diarrheal medicine
• 2 laundry bags (one for clothes worn in the community and one for other clothing items)
• Water bottle (reusable – to be filled with filtered water daily)
• Anti-bacterial hand gel/wipes
• Camera (only one cell phone per group is allowed while visiting homes in the community)
• Bible
• Journal
• Writing utensils
• Thank you cards (for hosts, teachers, etc.)
• Original Passport
• Photocopy of Passport (give it to Lemonade Host when you arrive)
• Supplies for the service project are pre-determined by your group
• Spending Money (suggested $100 per person)
• Medicine for a cold
• Medicine for allergies
• Towel (you may leave it as a donation)

Items NOT to Bring: 

Forms

Each group member is required to complete the appropriate consent form and submit it to the group leader 4 weeks before departure. Click on the links below to access the online forms.

Parental Consent, Release & Hold Harmless Agreement for Minors (for group members under 18 years of age at the time the form is completed)

Consent, Release & Hold Harmless Agreement for Adults

Questions?

Contact our Service Learning Trip Coordinator