The attitudes and actions of people living in privileged societies can either perpetuate or stop poverty. A Vision Team experience will help those of us from privileged societies realize our power and responsibility. Other goals of the Vision Team experience are to build relationships that support our work; foster encounters that educate, provoke compassion, and challenge complacency; and connect needs with resources.

Each Day Brings New Learning

During your Vision Team experience, you will encounter a variety of work and learning activities designed to enhance your understanding of Guatemala and Common Hope’s work. Possible activities include visiting families with a social worker, attending informal talks and discussions with staff members, sorting supplies in the warehouse, shelving books in the library, or possibly building a house or planting trees. And nearly every Vision Team trip offers participants the opportunity to interact and play with the children whose lives are being changed thanks to thousands of people who support Common Hope’s work.

Cultural Experiences

Each Vision Team can also choose from a variety of cultural and historical experiences that will bring you closer to Guatemala’s soul. Many teams choose to do a challenging hike with Don Filiberto, whose family takes part in our programs. During the hike, you will learn more about Guatemala’s long civil war and typical Guatemalan life. Some teams also choose to spend time in Antigua, shopping at the market or taking a guided tour of Antigua’s colonial heritage.

The Nuts and Bolts

Each Vision Team must have a volunteer leader, who works closely with Common Hope’s staff to design your trip and manage the arrangements. Each Vision Team trip lasts 8 or 10 days and costs $1000 - $1200 excluding airfare. Modest accommodations and most meals are provided at our two sites. Generally, participants must be high school age or older. Team members under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. We do not accept children under the age of 14 to participate in construction. The Vision Team manual provides more details about orientation, packing, health, safety, and general Guatemalan information. It can be downloaded from our website. Resources

Please Join Us!

After a Vision Team trip to Guatemala with Common Hope, you may never be the same. It will help you understand how deeply connected we all are—even when we are separated by thousands of miles. It will open your eyes and your heart to the struggles and joys of others,inspiring you to look a little differently at your own life. Contact us about joining a Vision Team

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