One Bead at a Time

Many of the families Common Hope serves have children with special needs, so we also try to help them through our programs. One way we do this is through offering occupational therapy for students who need the services.

Currently, Maggie Shank, a volunteer from Chicago, Illinois is teaching an occupational therapy class on life-skills learning that meets three afternoons a week. more

Top of Her Class

Ana began first grade in 2003, but because of a language problem she failed that year. At that time she began language therapy at the project for problems she has with articulation. Learn how Ana, with the help of a Common Hope Speech Therapist, was able to excel in the classroom.

Forging a Dream

Luis Zamora recently graduated from high school. His family has been affiliated with Common Hope for many years, and his father has been an electrician at Common Hope for over a decade. Read the speech Luis delivered at his graduation.

Keeping Smiles Bright

With so many other pressing needs, dental hygiene and care is often neglected by many families in Guatemala. Poor oral hygiene, poor nutrition, and limited access to dentists add up to cavities, abscesses and sore mouths. In a country where most oral problems are treated by just pulling the tooth, an opportunity to visit a real dentist is rare. more

Breaking Through the Silence

When Marina Cucul realized her little girl Veronica was deaf, she was devastated. She thought Veronica would never be able to communicate with anyone, or attend school. Marina was afraid that Veronica’s life would be spent in a prison of silence. See how Common Hope was able to help.

Off to a Good Start

Luis Ramos is an 11-year-old child whose family participates in Common Hope’s programs.  Luis is the second oldest of five children.  For the past two months, he has come to Common Hope’s nutrition clinic for regular visits because of his height. At his age, he should be 4 feet 4 inches tall, but he is 3 feet 7 inches tall -- very short for his age, although his weight is adequate for his height. Learn more about how Common Hope nutritionists are helping Luis grow to his full potential.

A Home of Their Own

Elba and her husband Jose, live on a piece of rented land near Antigua with their daughter Rosa Angelica, and Elba’s brother. Elba works as a cleaning woman Monday through Friday, 8-4, and Jose is a bricklayer. Elba and her husband only have a first grade education. They make about $156 per month. See how they were able earn a place to call home.

A New Stove

A few months ago, Maria Sanchez told her social worker that her eyes were always stinging from making tortillas over an open fire and that her right arm hurt from lifting heavy things while cooking. Learn how the Stove Program has impacted Maria and her family.

The Opportunity to Work

Like most people, Maria González wants to work and support her family. But with only a third grade education and very little experience, she did not have the confidence or skills she needed to get a job. Many of the people we work with are just like Maria, so Common Hope created our PODER Program. more

The Long Road to Stability

Seven years ago, Angela Solis was severely depressed. Her husband was drinking heavily, he son had severe untreated rheumatoid arthritis, and they were very poor. Angela’s sister told her about Common Hope and insisted that Angela arrange a visit with a social worker. Angela agreed, but the day the social worker came to the house Angela’s hair wasn't done, her clothes weren't clean; she just didn't care. Learn about how Common Hope was able to assist in this difficult situation.