Volunteer Checklist

Most of the things you can buy in the states you can find in Guatemala. We have toothpaste, shampoos, makeup, and all kinds of things. However, please keep in mind we are located in a developing nation and our facilities reflect that. If you have any questions, about any item, please ask. Below is a list of things you will probably want while you are in Guatemala, whether you chose to purchase them here or there. (Asterisks indicate items you will not be able to find easily in Guatemala and should probably bring with you.)

Be sure to read:

  • You will need at least $100 in cash to get you started.(You can exchange the Dollar for Quetzal's in Guatemala.) The banks here will NOT exchange money that is torn, has a hole in it, or is very worn looking.
  • Sheets, pillow case, towel etc. If you can donate these to us after your visit with us, it is greatly appreciated.
  • 2 rolls of clear contact paper
  • Crayons
  • Transparencies* (We have a transparency machine; you will find these useful.)
  • Thumb - Memoria, CD´s
  • Construction paper
  • Plenty of White board markers
  • Teaching materials, books, maps, pictures, coloring books, stickers, etc. While the schools have some basic supplies, any educational materials you can bring will be put to very good use. (Kids love the stickers and pencils.)
  • Warm clothes for the evenings (December thru February is cold!)
  • Plenty of underwear so you don't have to do laundry every day
  • Good, heavy shoes for walking
  • Sandals because it is often hot (It can be difficult to find sandals in big sizes.)
  • Tivas to wear in the shower and for water resorts
  • Spanish Dictionary and books
  • Guatemala or Central America guidebook (The Lonely Planet series is popular.)
  • Books for pleasure reading
  • Games for entertainment (Talking and spending time together are probably the most common pastimes. Bring some activities to do in the evenings.)
  • Music, tapes, CDs etc. as well as something to play them on.
  • Windbreaker, or raincoat.
  • Insect repellant with Deet in it for mosquitos.
  • Insect repellant with Permethrin*. Permethrin is the best defense against fleas. You can spray your bed with this every two weeks if needed. Volunteers have also found that dog collars are great!
  • Vitamins* (Most medicines can be purchased here without prescription. Vitamins and health supplements can be found in Guatemala City.)
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Sweatshirts
  • Personal medicines
  • Travel iron
  • Flashlight*- good ones are hard to find in Guatemala. We often lose electricity.

Note: If you plan on touring the country you will want to make sure you bring more money, or have access to a VISA, or some other account. Please note that VISA is widely accepted whereas MasterCard is not.