  
Family Development Center
Common Hope's Family Development Center
is the realization of a dream. From the very beginning,
we wanted a place located in the heart of the villages we
serve, one that would be welcoming to the affiliated families
and provide adequate working conditions for our staff and
volunteers.
The current Family
Development Center is a beautiful place with six buildings
and a network of peaceful gardens, located just outside
Antigua and central to the 15 villages where we work. The
site serves 1,700 children and their families—a
total of about 7,000 people. There is a medical clinic,
library, social work offices, volunteer housing, classrooms
and more.
The Center is designed to be a hub for Common Hope’s expanding network of satellites in Guatemala. It can also serve as a crisis center if there is a major earthquake or flood.
Constructed by Affiliated Dads and Brothers
Common Hope started building the Family
Development Center in 1993. All of the buildings were
constructed by the fathers and older brothers of sponsored
children. Many came to us knowing little of construction.
Over time, they have become skilled craftsmen, learning
valuable trade skills which will serve them well, long beyond
their employment with Common Hope.
The Center is
built to California earthquake standards, yet is beautiful
enough to offer respite to families who need a lovely, peaceful
place to find relief from life's pressure. There is
adequate space for employees to do their jobs and find privacy
with families when needed.
Alive With Activity
Today the Family Development Center buzzes with activity. Family members visit with friends who are waiting to see a doctor or social worker. Children play on the playground. Adults take coffee breaks in one of the beautiful gardens. A tutoring class might be meeting outside under a tree. Volunteers organize donated items in the warehouse. Mothers walk through the outside corridors on their way to literacy classes.
We welcome visitors to our Family Development Center. Give us a call and come by for a tour the next time you are in Guatemala.
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