I am so grateful that I heard about Highland Support Project my freshman year in college; my college experience would not have been the same without it! I went on two volunteer trips to Guatemala with this organization. What I love most about Highland Support Project is the fact that everyone is able to help out in some way and that the organization is so open to members from all sorts of disciplines. There work that this organization does really focuses on humanitarian need and building strong relationships with countries like Guatemala that allow us to really give them the help they need. I love the personalization that Highland Support Project endorses because volunteers know exactly who they are helping and they actually get the chance to interact with the population that they are working with.
Richmond Community High School has had the opportunity to work with HSP over the last few years. HSP has coordinated efforts with student community service in our Community Garden and brought in college volunteers to work alongside our students. They were also instrumental in connecting us with engineering students from York College who developed a plan for a water catchment system for the garden.
Our high school students have attended two trips with HSP. The first in the summer of 2023 was a service learning experience to Guatemala to learn about and assist with projects in the Mayan Highlands. It was a truly life changing experience and everything was beautifully planned which took the pressure off our teacher chaperones. Last April a larger group of students traveled with HSP to White Mountain Arizona to learn about the Apache culture and reservation.
Everyone at HSP is dedicated to their mission and we look forward to many more collaborations with them.
My Higher Ed institution brought a small group of students to Xela for a week long excursion. We spent the week assisting the Highland Support Project in achieving their goals toward providing support to families deep in the Highlands of Guatemala. My students left Guatemala with a more in depth understanding of the Mayan Culture, community engagement, and Indigenous issues. I look forward to bringing another cohort of students to Guatemala to help support this nonprofit.
My wife Barb and I spent 8 amazing days with Highland Support project in Guatemala this last winter. Five of those days were spent in a small village learning about Mayan culture with three days assisting families with stove assembly in a small village nearby that had been relocated because of mud slides. The Mayan staff and families were so friendly and helpful. The other three days we were led on tours to to Lake Atitlan, Quetzaltenango ( home base for HSP), and Antigua. This was the most meaningful travel experience in our 70 plus years. We were fed well and healthily .
As I reflect on my experience with HSP, I am reminded of the impact they have had on my life and the lives of those they serve. From mentorship programs to community service projects, HSP's engagements are carefully designed to inspire, educate, and motivate students. HSP is a truly exceptional organization that is making a meaningful difference in the lives of students in the Richmond community. Their commitment to empowerment, community, and social responsibility is inspiring.
Bonus: Highland Support Project is a part of the FWS program. I highly recommend reaching out to HSP as they offer a unique opportunity to leverage your skills and expertise to drive meaningful impact, while also refining technical abilities and fostering personal growth.
They lead well-organized, safe, and super meaningful experiences where the Mayan culture is highlighted and respected. They do such important work around health and community organization, and it's such a privilege to work alongside them. The place we stayed in the mountains was beautiful, as was the host community where we worked a short drive away. My wife and son have also traveled with HSP and have nothing but good things to say. It's a well-planned immersion into a community we would otherwise never see or connect with in our lives. Very grateful we crossed paths with this organization whose mission is to do such good!
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My experience with HSP was incredible. the team was organized yet flexible, kind and knowledgeable, and so open to all of our questions. I feel they did a nice job of balancing service work, providing cultural and historical education and then just having a good old time. They planned a surprise party for two of our team members that was so joyful and memorable with fireworks and cake! I truly felt like I was part of the community at the end of my time in Guatemala. I plan to go back in the future.
Our experience working with Highland Support Project over the years has been such an incredible and enriching partnership. As a team leader, they make my job easy by planning everything and thinking of everything ahead of time! They are accommodating, supportive, and very skilled at hosting volunteers and travelers.
The actual experience on the trip- learning about and from the local people and culture, history and current programs and getting to work alongside people transforming their own communities is an incredible experience. I cannot say enough about the impact on our community and how we are prompted to see the world and act in it differently. This is why we keep going back.
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I partnered with HSP and AMA to create the best cultural, learning, and trip experience for my youth team in our history. The way that our participants were prepared, guided, and led to build relationships while learning from and working next to local folks was beautiful. Our entire church community has been impacted and moved from the stories that our youth have shared upon their return.
Highland Support Project is a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting indigenous communities in the highlands of various countries. They work closely with local communities, respecting their cultural values and traditions, and prioritize long-term initiatives to empower communities. They focus on preserving indigenous knowledge, promoting self-reliance, and addressing critical issues like poverty, healthcare, and education. Highland Support Project is transparent and accountable, ensuring donations go where they are needed most. They engage in capacity-building activities, ensuring local leaders have ownership and a stake in their success. Their work is highly laudable and highly recommended for those passionate about empowering indigenous communities. I am honored to be part of the HSP club.
I have worked at HSP for a federal work-study job since my freshman year of college. I am very glad to be a part of the team and to be able to learn more about non-profit organizations. HSP has plenty of volunteering services that may benefit you. Last year I volunteered at the folk festival in Richmond, VA, and not only was it a good opportunity to earn volunteer hours, but I also had fun while doing so. The people who work for HSP and volunteer are all very kind and caring. HSP has dedication and long-term accompaniment with Indigenous communities; we strive to create job opportunities and access to resources for current and future generations. If you get the chance, definitely join us in our endeavor to bring about positive growth and sustainable solutions for all. You won't regret it! There are plenty of mission trips, volunteering, and group activities you can do!
I recently participated in a school trip to Guatemala organized by the Highland Support Project, and the experience was truly transformative. We had the privilege of contributing to a sustainable initiative by helping build clean-burning stoves in the Guatemalan Highlands, allowing us to make a positive impact and forge connections with local communities. HSP's holistic approach resonated with our group, and I believe our small contributions had a meaningful impact on the lives of the people we interacted with. I highly recommend HSP to those seeking self-discovery, cultural immersion, and community service opportunities.
Looking back at my previous store that was shared a year ago my experience with HSP is still amazing if not better. I can’t explain how grateful I am to be apart of the HSP team, last year being my first year here at VCU working with HSP gave me the push that was needed to face the world.
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I have worked at HSP for my federal work study since my freshman year of college. It has been a great and supportive experience. They've helped me to strengthen my abilities when it comes to researching and writing academically. They allowed me to be flexible with the projects that I worked on and also gave me the skills to expand and work on projects that introduced me to the process of planning and budgeting. I've enjoyed every experience I've had working with HSP, they've helped me connect with a community of students through the club that is joint with them through VCU and have broadened my horizons and knowledge of indigenous and ecological issues.
I’ve served with HSP many times over the past twenty years. Lupe and Ben are truly leaders when it comes to ethical cross-cultural exchange. Their commitment to longterm partnerships with the communities they serve is unmatched. The service trips they design and lead are transformational for all involved. I highly recommend!
HSP's work goes beyond simply providing community aid. They have always been about facilitating transformational change locally and abroad. The mission of their service and educational campaigns puts community empowerment first, having a tangible impact on people's quality of life. Lupe and Ben have put their heart into HSP since it was founded, and the care and effort that they put into their mission shows in the results of the HSP team's work and the strength of their community relationships.
I was given the opportunity to work with Highland Support Project during my freshman year in college and so far it has been a fantastic experience! Their goal is to educate and empower indigenous communities through acts of service and by giving people the option to interact with and learn from indigenous people and their culture. Everyone on the team is so sweet and welcoming. It's very intriguing and heartwarming to see what goes on before events and trips that the Highland Support Project hosts. Seriously an amazing group of people with an amazing goal. I'm happy to be a part of the team!
The Highland Support Project creates projects in conjunction with the communities they serve to both truly address the pressing issues of the communities but foster self autonomy throughout the community
Highland Support Project is so full of life. I love that they seek to make changes that last while building awareness. Their heart for the community is steadfast and pure and it shows in their sincere relationships with the communities they partner with. I can't wait to see what more they will accomplish.
I love that Highland Support Project focuses on building self agency in the communities they partner with and facilitates access to opportunity rather than maintaining dependency.
I served as a trip leader for our church high school group which partnered with HSP. HSP was an amazing partner. Lupe was incredibly organized, flexible, sensitive and inspiring. It was a remarkable learning experience for our youth to discover more about local Mayan communities, histories and strengths. As a university instructor I have partnered with other nonprofits in Central America and HSP was partiularly remarkable. I would recommend it without hesitation!
I had a wonderful time interning here this summer! I truly felt connected to the people I worked with. Not only did I have the opportunity to learn more about community organizing and epistemological change (big word!) I was able to build close connections with the staff and the communities they support. Love HSP and AlterNatives.
I remember being a freshman in college and buying a pair of earrings from AlterNatives. At the time, I knew nothing about AlterNatives and the impact it had on the Indigenous community. Three years later, I never would have thought I would be working so closely with Highland Support Project and AlterNatives. I learned that AlterNatives was a program that was created to support Indigenous women in their businesses. I think it is very powerful that HSP is able to share their beautiful crafts, while also promoting the idea of transformational development.
An amazing organization. I love that they work so hard to encourage students to be active and engaged citizens in their communities.
Highland Support project is such an amazing organization! They really do so much in helping indigenous people with their transformational development strategies. They also give their volunteers and work study students great opportunities to gain experience, grow, and learn when working with them.
Worked with them for over 7 months as a federal work study student, intern, volunteer, and employee. Great and caring staff who are always friendly and understanding. I was given complete control of their tiktok page, and they really do practice what they preach with empowerment theory. My ideas were heard, I had a position of power, and I felt self motivated to work on their projects. Extremely up to date on their sociology and implementations of research with community building. I really have no complaints.
The HSP promotes great things for climate action. There are so many events to spread information and information spread with their social media. They try to engage with federal work study students to find where they may fit the best to support the project. Everyone works really well together and try to keep the energy up as well as keep the students engaged.
I've seen the work done by the Highland Support Project firsthand. They get to know each community member and focus on the common development by breaking the cycle of poverty and their theory of change. I cannot stress enough how this has a meaningful impact on the communities. I'm so grateful for the work they do.
Took part in a Virtual Engagement Experience with HSP and my students loved it. The speakers were fantastic and the schedule was a great mix of information, community building, and breaks to prevent Zoom fatigue. Looking forward to being able to partner in person in the future.
Working with Highland Support Project has been an amazing experience for us! Their mission statement and work has deeply resonated with me and I'm very proud to see all the accomplishments so far. One aspect that I really enjoy is their work to empower Indigenous communities through social media and online outreach. I believe that aside from direct community outreach, HSP has also done so well with educating people through blogposts. I've learned so much myself just by working with the team, and I am excited to see what else HSP has in store!
I’m so beyond grateful for this organization. I’m am new to the Virginia/ Richmond area and I’m always looking for ways to support the community, i am in and this couldn’t be a more astounding place to support.
Highland Support Project truly values the relationships with their staff and clients. It is an excellent and collaborative work environment. In my time here I have learned so much! It's an honor to be apart of a team that prioritizes advocacy and community organization.
HSP Is one of the warmest and amazing organizations I have ever known. Everyone is so kind and helpful. Everyone there truly has a heart for helping people and not only bettering our community but bettering the world.
I am a new member of Highland Support Project and I love it! Everyone are warm and welcoming as well as hard working. Even before I became a part of the team, their actions were known. They are always having events and inviting others from to community to join them.
The Highland Support Project does incredible work with indigenous people. They’ve taught me so much about fostering agency to populations, and gave me awesome field work experience!
Highland Support Project does an incredible job supporting Indigenous people and in educating the public about these support systems. I’ve learned so much from them in an organic, authentic way and truly believe that HSP has a positive impact in carrying out their mission.
The Highland Support Project expresses so much care for their staff, volunteers and indigenous communities in helping people around the world. It is truly an amazing organization to be involved with.
I have been a long term supporter of HSP and the service oriented work that they do to give indigenous groups a platform for their voices to be heard. Inclusiveness starts with acknowledgement and HSP is an organization that paves a path for everyone to come together to support the dreams and missions of Mayan women who deserve to be empowered and have their voices heard.
The conversations, experiences, and thoughts I was exposed to during my time in Guatemala as intern with HSP were a catalyst for my personal and professional growth. My experience made me more confident, gave me the flexibility to learn about and work on interesting projects, provided me lifelong mentors, and introduced me to people who were also curious about similar issues and wanted to ask difficult questions. All my preconceived notions were challenged and my personal philosophy changed during my time with HSP. HSP is an organization that undoubtedly provides a safe and extraordinary opportunity for people to learn about global challenges. I wish everyone could experience and learn more about the work HSP does.
I cannot say enough about how great Highland Support Project is. This organization does an amazing job empowering everyone they work with, from the indigenous communities to their employees and interns. I work at AlterNatives the social enterprise HSP formed, and they care so much about making sure people continue to build their skills.
I was an intern with the Highland Support Project during the summer, and I had a fantastic experience. I was given autonomy and the ability to make this internship as valuable as possible while also receiving guidance, advice, and feedback regularly throughout the process. As an intern, I learned how to read academic articles, develop my own project plans, research grant opportunities, and communicate my findings. But I also got to learn about the nonprofit sector, examine its ethicality, and think about more effective community development and community organizing measures. HSP really knows how to make the most of the intern experience.
I spent a summer Interning with HSP and it was an incredible experience. HSP prioritizes the safety and experience of their volunteers, while still providing a week of service that has a valuable impact on the communities they work with. They have found the perfect balance of "voluntourism" that provides this safe and positive experience, while still supporting local people and promoting an exchange of cultures in an aware way.
HSP is truly a special organization that makes a huge impact on everyone involved. The trips provide an opportunity to address large issues while the people make the trip meaningful on a personal level. The trip this year to Guatemala was such a great balance of work, culture, learning, and fun, and you could really see the impact it had on both our students and the Guatemalan communities. We always felt like HSP always had everything covered: excellent meals and lodging, transportation and excursions, safety and health, and just being there to make sure we were having the best experience possible. I can't thank them enough for the work they do and I most highly recommend HSP!
HSP is an incredible organization that works to empower and educate Mayan women in the Highlands of Guatemala. I’ve traveled with them 4 times with high school student groups and their sustainable approach to giving aid provides an awesome opportunity for students to learn about service and another culture. I highly recommend them!
Last year I was very fortunate to travel to Guatemala with a group from my church to work with Highland Support Project. My experience was life changing to say the least. I learned more about the importance of educating indigenous women to have a voice in their community and skills to achieve their personal goals. We worked with community members in a rural town of Guatemala to start building a kitchen for a local school. Previously the women who cooked for the school daily had to use an open fire pit outside in the school courtyard where children were also playing. This project is just one of hundreds of community projects, initiated by women, that HSP has helped to make happen.
I had a beautiful experience volunteering with Highland Support Project in Guatemala. It was an amazing opportunity for myself and everyone involved and I am so grateful! The Highland Support Project is making an amazing difference with all of their projects and they are impacting the lives of so many citizens in Guatemala as well the volunteers that come from all over the world to participate in their projects!
I just wanted to say I was so lucky that I had the chance to work alongside the highland group! I got to meet a few people who have worked with them and I find all the work they have been doing is amazing! They are really making a difference and supporting the communities in Guatemalan and making voices heard. I only wish that soon enough I will get to work with them once again. So thank you all for such a great job and for helping out so many people in such a great way!! I have learnt so much from you all and envy being like you all any chance I get
I can't say enough about the Highland Support Project and the wonderful people who made my trip to Guatemala a dream come true and a life changing experience. From being welcomed by the Mayan women into the community to building stoves, providing healthcare teaching, seeing the beautiful country and learning about the culture- it was all a truly wonderful experience that I was thankful to be a part of.
I just went this spring on a school trip as a volunteer for Highland Support Project. It was an incredible experience! The community was super kind, our guide, translator and our bus driver became our family. Our group bonded incredibly due to the fact that it is a heartwarming experience! Helping out communities, being able to give happiness to children is an unforgettable experience. The team is extremely supportive and you never feel as if you're doing it alone.
The Highland Support Project was an inspiration to all of us that went. It was one of the most beautiful, caring, and rewarding experiences I've ever had. We all opened our hearts to allow each other to benefit from such a moving experience. The Mayan women opened their homes to us and gave us a heartfelt welcome while teaching us about their history. We touched each others lives and cherished the moments we had together, it was a experience never to be forgotten.
The Highland Support Project was a great opportunity to expand my horizons. With my trip to Guatemala, I felt overwhelmed with emotions. To be able to touch other lives, to create more cultural awareness, and to feel enlightened are just a few benefits of this life-changing moment.
An incredible organization. I participated in HSP's stove building project through Rutgers Camden's service learning program, and the experience was life-changing. The work of HSP truly empowers those that it supports and serves, and the gratitude of the women and children after our time in the highlands spoke volumes about the impact that the Project is having. I feel privileged to have worked with HSP and would highly recommend supporting and collaborating with them.
I had the privilege of joining forces with The Highland Support Project in spring of 2018. Through a service learning opportunity held by Rutgers Camden, I participated in HSP's clean-air stove building project and spent 10 days among the highlands of Guatemala educating and being educated. Through this experience I formed some of the most meaningful, genuine relationships with the kindest, most appreciative women, children and families living in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. This was the most impactful and meaningful journey I have embarked on thus far in my life and I carry its impact with me daily as I continue to work, love and use my voice to speak for those who cannot. My experience with HSP served as an important stepping stone for me in my confirmation that I want to dedicate my life and my strengths towards service-oriented work. I was constantly inspired and encouraged by the loving, supportive humanitarians working for and with HSP and it was a privilege to share part in their mission. I spread the word about HSP whenever I can to whoever will listen and I can't wait to work with them again.
This 8 day experiences left me with memories and ignited a passion for me to help create more opportunities and empower women like myself for a lifetime! I couldn’t express how well organized, safe, thoughtful, and educational this trip was for me through HSP. HSP has set the standard for nonprofits and I have the privilege of serving as a board member.
I had an highly memorable and undoubtedly life changing trip with HSP when I went summer of 2018. Although originally the trip was work related, to help give the employees of HSP tools they could use for professional development, I think in the end I learned just as much if not more than they did.
The employees I worked with in HSP, both Americans and Guatemalans, were such interesting, unique, and friendly people, they helped make every day an enjoyable adventure.
I interned with HSP a little while back and was amazed by how passionate and knowledgeable the organization was. This is 100% a hands on nonprofit run by individuals that really care about the work they do. HSP has great opportunities to get involved directly with communities you help in Guatemala and Arizona which gives you first hand exposure to transformative development and aid. I look forward to seeing more of their amazing work in the future!
Having worked with Highland Support Project for four years, I would say that they do a FANTASTIC job of providing transformative experiences for their customers coupled with lasting impact in the communities they serve. In terms of customers, they do a great job connecting the personal touch with the history, community, and individuals impacted. In terms of the service provided to the communities, I am deeply impressed with the level of emotion noticed within the community and the commitment to serving BEYOND the call of duty. Ten out of ten would recommend.
I had the great pleasure of working with HSP through a pro bono initiative over the last few years. HSP does groundbreaking development work that is truly empowering to the women in this local community. They focus on providing sustainable, equitable resources, breaking from the dependency-focused approach that so many NGOs in this region unfortunately take. Keep up the good work!
This was one of the best experiences I’ve had. It was so humbling and enlightening. HSP was organized and well ran and in coordination with the AMA house I never felt lost or without guidance or love. Everyone in Guatemala was so nice and welcoming. A+ to everyone involved and thank you for such an amazing opportunity!
I partnered with Highland Support Project this year along with my classmates and professors to go to Guatemala and raise health and wellness to the indigenous people in Guatemala. This nonprofit organization was incredible, the staff is so friendly and welcoming and really cared about us, the trip, and the people. If you plan to partner with them and choose them, you won’t regret it and you will have a trip to remember for lifetime. Thank you to everyone there and I hope soon we meet again and do it all over!
I donated to the Highland Support Project, of which I work, to support a midwifery program. I never expected to have my own life changed. Over the course of a year stories emerged about the struggles that traditional midwives had in being treated with dignity by hospital staff. It was powerful to witness the accompaniment of the Association of Highland Women to guide these women to identify their objectives and begin to analyze what to do when encountering an obstacle. That message of resilience has proven to be a good tool in my own life.
Too often we abandon a goal when we encounter an obstacle.
Review from #MyGivingStory
I was incredibly impressed by the thoughtful way the Highland Support Project connects volunteers to indigenous communities. I have travelled to other countries in Central America with organizations that claim to be partnering with the community, but only Highland Support Partners truly made me feel I was part of a partnership. The Highland Support Project truly made our time with the community a learning experience for both our team and community members. For example, we went on a tour of a market with local weavers so they could learn about their competition and we could learn about indigenous crafts. While stove building, we worked with the homeowners and got a chance to talk to them as well as the mason working with us. These experiences truly put the indigenous women at the center of the project to build their agency, while allowing my team to learn as well. I cannot fully describe how collaborative all of the Highland Support Project's activities felt, so I would recommend anyone interested in learning about and working with the Indigenous people of Guatemala contact the Highland Support Project and see for yourself!
On my most recent trip with Highland Support Project I traveled the the White Mountain Apache Reservation in Arizona. I engaged with with the Apache youth in group activities that focused on leadership skills and team building. The type of service I did on this trip was far from what I was expecting to do. As a large football player I was expecting to use my skills in the art of manual labor but instead HSP utilized the leadership skills I have gained through my time in competitive sports to help lead a day camp for the apache youth. I enjoyed the time I spent helping the youth to build leadership skills for themselves and seeing how they were able to use the skills the get through various team building activities.
This trip was truly eye opening for me because it showed me a different type of service that can be done on mission trips that are much more effective than traditional service. I found that rather than giving out things which can instill bad habits for the future, building relationships and teaching the youth useful skills while giving them the tools to better help themselves is actually a much better form of service and will help them gain a better and brighter future.
Amazing Organization, facilitates partnerships with the communities, helping the most isolated people in the highlands. How incredible are all the benefits for building a stove: Respiratory disease, children accidents can be avoided, also saves firewood, saves time in the food preparation, they receive talks about self-steam and leadership. behavioral health that contributes to the empowerment of the Mayan women.
HSP is a fantastic association- could not be farther from the pitfalls of voluntourism. We have a long-lasting relationship with HSP and have had successful trips in the past- this last trip was no exception. Thank you!
Had a great time on my first international mission trip. Would do it again in a heart beat. Great job HSP!
This is the most well-organized and put together nonprofit I have worked with! They are great and took care of everything, we're very flexible and I had a great time working with Lupe and Ben.
Amazing! This nonprofit's work with communities in Guatemala is intriguing and their emphasis on transformational development and helping communities be self-sufficient makes them even more admirable. I volunteer with the group and look forward to learning and helping each day!
I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with Highland Support Project for all of my life. My parents are the directors. I was an infant when I was taken on my first trip to Guatemala. My earliest memories are images of the post civil war military state. Of driving through central Quetzaltenango, seeing Humvees drive by carrying men with automatic rifles. I also have vivid memories of my experiences in the indigenous communities. I remember feeling scared as I sat in the back seat of a little pick-up truck. On a narrow mountainside road, where any divergence would be fatal. In the middle of a thunderstorm. With my parents outside, pushing the truck from behind to keep the momentum moving forward. This effort was to reach even the most marginalized communities. From that same night, I remember the loud thuds of raindrops on their thin tin roofs and the black soot that covered their huts with flies stuck in it. I would later learn that the soot comes from cooking over open-pit fires.
Throughout my life, I learned about various aspects of development from my experiences with Highland Support Project (HSP). From stove-building I learned about grassroots development, from reforestation I learned about sustainability, from weaving circles I learned about behavioral health. All this time, I had a general feeling that genuine good was being done. Not just because the directors were my parents; but also due to the sincere gratitude that was expressed by families in the communities we worked in. However, it wasn’t until my junior year of college, when I had a class called Development Economics, that I truly appreciated the amazing work that HSP has pioneered. The class, for me, validated everything that HSP does. Although it is impossible to summarize sustainable development in three points, there are at least three critical topics that I learned, which HSP has been enacting for over 22 years. These key points include a focus on women’s empowerment, acknowledging multidimensional poverty, and a spotlight on human and social capital.
We learned about a focus on women’s empowerment as if it were a new concept. Something brand new that came along with the New Millennium Development Goals. This left me dumbfounded, considering that HSP has been focusing on women’s empowerment since 1993. HSP’s first women’s empowerment program was to provide indigenous mothers with ventilated cookstoves. It is seemingly simplistic; however, the ripple effect is amazingly intricate. For example, through community surveys, we found that the leading cause of death for Indigenous women was a upper-respiratory infection. This is easily prevented with ventilated stoves. Furthermore, the ventilated stoves are fuel efficient. It elevates the cooking from the floor to provide better sanitation. Regarding sustained development, it allows women to spend less time cooking because cooking a meal over an open-pit fire takes hours (Just think about that time you tried to cook anything while camping). This enables women to engage in their communities. To establish PTA’s. To help their children go to school. To make lunches for the children who are at school, so they children can learn and retain information better. To have time for women’s circles, so they can share their experiences and relate with other women in the community; and, ultimately, to endeavor in different income ventures and become successful businesswomen. From the chain of events, you can see how investing in women results in a greater social rate of return than investing in men. This is because investments in women more directly benefit their children and women are empirically more likely to spend increased incomes on their families.
From the beginning, HSP has invested their efforts in addressing multidimensional poverty. This simply means that poverty entails more than just having low income. To address multidimensional poverty, organizations must consider the health, educational and productive aspects of individuals. HSP’s acknowledgment of multidimensional poverty is exemplified by their growth of different, yet interrelated, projects. For example, the Mayan Arts Project was initiated to address the dissipation of Maya philosophy in rural schools-- the educational dimension. The Association of Maya Women was started to provide indigenous women with behavioral health programming-- the health and productivity dimensions. Very early on HSP recognized the negative impact self-esteem could have on a community. The “Qanil” project was started to address nutritional deficiencies in indigenous communities-- the health dimension. Over 22 years, HSP’s attention to the dimensions of poverty has led to drastic increases in capital available for the indigenous communities we support.
Remember that capital can take many forms. Capital can be financial, human, social, and the list goes on. HSP has enabled indigenous women to build their human capital through all the projects and programming provided to them. At every step of the way, the women and their families are involved in the process. For example, before even receiving a stove, women are trained in community engagement, and there is an understanding that the stove is not charity. The women are not dependent upon the stove. A stove is a tool for their economic independence. Furthermore, our volunteers understand they are not giving anything away. Our volunteers engage in partnership with the families. Where the families receive the support for their projects, and volunteers leave with a completely changed perspective on poverty and development. The partnerships formed is what builds the social capital. My favorite example of the social capital being built is with the reforestation project. Initially, HSP would buy samplings from a big company in the city. Now, however, a woman who once received a stove now started her tree nursery. Thus, HSP can source the saplings for reforestation from the women who once received a stove. This example illustrates social capital and HSP’s continuing relationships with the communities HSP engages in.
From my earliest memories of post-civil war Guatemala to what it has become now, much of the change can be attributed to non-governmental organizations such as Highland Support Project. I could never express enough how proud I am of HSP, after learning the academics behind development economics. I am so proud that before implementing projects, HSP went to the communities and asked them what they think their most pressing problems were. I am proud of the relationships that have been created. I am proud of the gratitude that has been expressed towards my family and every volunteer that has worked with us. Lastly, I am proud to assure that anyone who spends just a week with HSP in Guatemala will feel this pride too.
I went on a trip with HSP to White Mountain Apache Reservation for a service learning trip with a group of students from Virginia Commonwealth University. The trip was one week planned to the hour with presentations, activities, and events. White Mountain is gorgeous, full of breath taking views and so much culture that America often misses. The time I spent in White Mountain truly opened my mind to a whole new perspective and I am so thankful to HSP for that gift. Their dedication to service is unparalleled. This is a non-profit that truly gives everything it can into their work.
HSP ambitiously strives to tackle societal, political, economic and systemic problems that most non-profits shy from. The team's organization, passion, and unyielding commitment to empower and equip indigenous communities is inspiring. Volunteering as an intern has been a eye-opening experience thus far and I look forward to what lies ahead!
The experience that HSP facilitates is a cultural interchange in which each person has the opportunity to connect, respect and value cultures. HSP offers a life-changing trip that helps communities to change.
HSP service has a trustworthy plataform that truly makes sure of the security of all the people that uses it. HSP is an organization that is always noticing the impact of the work their proyects have in the lives of their clients.
Highland Support Project is a bridge that helps people around the world to be in contact with the real face of the communities, allowing people to truly make a difference. HSP work in communities in Guatemala have changed a lot of lives, being proof that transformational development is not just a dream but a way in which people work for change and regain control of their own lives.
The Highland Support Project is one of few non-profit networks that doesn't focus on development from a Western perspective. Their methodology is one of "transformational development", meaning that communities lift themselves out of poverty by participating in their programming, and do so sustainably. I really think that HSP is doing that that almost no other organizations working in Guatemala are doing. Their methods may not be as flashy, but they help people from the ground up. Highly recommend participating in one of their amazing trips!
What makes HSP is different is that they don't implement band-aid solutions. Their mission and work focuses on the long-term solutions and more importantly, solutions that are sustainable. I know I've personally always felt like the charity/volunteer work I've done in other areas (donations, hosting fundraisers, volunteering at events, etc.) have not been enough. I think that they do help, but I know I could contribute even more to the causes I care about.
I admire and advocate for HSP because it is an organization that puts the people they serve at the heart of their projects. I've volunteered with them for about 7 months and I can see that they are committed to working with the Mayans for the long-run. Everyone here is outwardly passionate and driven in what they do and love the people that they work with and I'm happy to be a part of the work that they do!
I truly enjoyed my trip to Guatemala. I feel as if we have left an impact of who we are and what we stand for with the Myan Woman. The fact that they know others will struggle for their lively hood helps them know they are not alone. I felt like the support helped them more then the physical labor.
I worked with HSP to build stoves for the indigenous people. I had a great exposure to diversity and I was amazed to see how women are now taking initiatives to be educated despite having socio-economical barriers. They knew the ventilated stoves could change the future of their kids. The families were very welcoming and we all had a great experience in the highlands of Guatemala. Other students should take this opportunity to explore different cultures, which can open a new window for them.
As a volunteer for the Highland Project, I worked to build stoves for the women and families living in the highlands of Guatemala where I was immersed into the community and families of those we were building stoves for. The conditions in which the families lived greatly humbled me; I was most shocked that clean water and indoor plumbing was not a standard for the households in the Highlands. Yet, I was more surprised by the families positivity, hospitality and giving nature! I never felt as though I could convey my gratitude towards the women and families that our group worked for. I highly recommend working with the Highland Support Project to further forward their mission to create self-perpetuating social entrepreneurship by empowering individuals through teamwork to transform adversity into opportunity.
I had a great time in December 2013 traveling to Guatemala with Highland Support Project! I wish I had been able to spend more time building the stoves--one week was NOT long enough for everything I wanted to do! My group was relatively small, but we had a really good time. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. I appreciated the whole experience a lot.
Volunteering with the Highland Support Project during Spring Break of 2014 was probably one of the most useful ways to spend my time. I embarked on the journey without a clue of what to expect but I was going alongside some of my friends that had gone before and they assured me that it would be an amazing experience. Working alongside the women of the highlands and interacting with their children and families opened the windows of a new world to me. They welcomed us into their families and communicated with us as their own--they helped us as we helped them. I saw that these women are climbing mountains just to complete their daily chores while I complete daily tasks in complete leisure. In addition to the service activities, I greatly enjoyed exploring Guatemala on my own which allowed me to immerse myself into the culture. This program works to educate and entertain the students as well as provide a great service opportunity in the rural area of Guatemala. This trip taught me to become human and I look forward to making another trip to this region again, all thanks to the Highland Support Project.
HSP is a wonderful organization that empowers indigenous people of Guatemala and truly makes a difference. I signed up for a trip over spring break that truly changed my outlook on the world. I was surprised to see so many happy faces in a country I assumed to be overrun by poverty. While HSP allowed me to do all the touristy type things my heart could desire they also showed me what it meant to show love and kindness to others in ways I didn't have the opportunity to do so before.
I have had the privilege of participating in several service trips with the Highland Support Project. This includes one trip to an Indian reservation in Arizona where my group helped to build a foundation for a community garden. I also took part in three trips to the highlands of Guatemala where I was able to participate in health screenings and education sessions with the women and children, as well as help build stoves for several families. By working with the families and building these stoves we not only made an impact in preventing burns, fires, and smoke inhalation injury, but we provided the women with more free time to help provide for their families in communities in ways other than keeping a fire. Each trip was an unforgettable experience, and working with HSP staff both in the states and in Guatemala has given me hope that there are still people trying to make real, sustainable change happen. I cannot wait for my next opportunity to work with this organization again.
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I have had the pleasure of going to Guatemala twice with the Highland Support Project and this summer I intend on working with them in Arizona as well. Their model of sustainability and working closely with communities is amazing. I felt as if all the interventions we did while in Guatemala made a lasting impact in the communities and helped to lay a foundation for health promotion in the rural communities. I hope to continue our partnership with HSP!
As a graduate student in Guatemala, I had an inclination we would be treated more as “volun-tourists” than as people who wanted to learn about the culture of the country. To my surprise, we were immersed in the rural culture from the beginning of our trip. The families with whom we interacted made an effort to show us how their community truly functioned. The projects we completed were designed to benefit the community, but also teach us about the history, economy, and social structure of the region. The Highland Support Project clearly took the time and effort to create a multi-faceted program that educates participants while also completing their mission goal of helping the communities of rural Guatemala. I seriously have to tip my hat to them and I am already making plans to visit the region again.
I never thought I could build a stove, but this experience taught me so much more. I've never felt such a personal reward, or valued water pressure and hot water so much!
One of the most fruitful experiences of my life and quite honestly, I think it was life changing. Lupe was an excellent guide, a tad disorganized at times, but over all she did a fantastic job facilitating the trip. I am eager to get and work alongside AMA and the rest of the gang in Guate.
¡Fue un placer!
My trip with HSP last spring the most rewarding experience of my life. I would recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. It is amazing how much you learn just from stepping outside your comfort zone and seeing how other parts of the world live.
I have traveled to Guatemala three times to work with the highland communities who are partnered with the Highland Support Project. Each time I learn more about HSP that makes me proud to be a volunteer with them. They empower individuals and communities to grow through educational partnerships, building partnerships, and leadership-development partnerships. The women's circles particularly touch my heart. HSP never drops in and out. They are with a community for as long as the community wants the partnership.
It is an honor to be associated with HSP.
Sincerely,
Fay Parpart
I love working with this organization! I learned more in one week than I have in years of my life. I now better understand the importance of giving back and making sure that we stay informed about what's going on in our world today and what we can do to help. I would volunteer over and over again!
I have traveled with the Highland Support Project twice, once as a volunteer and second as a spring break trip leader. I absolutely loved my time there! The first trip was very much life-changing because of the people and the leaders involved. Ben and Lupe are an inspiration and they have so many amazing ideas to teach and share. I definitely plan on being involved in the future as well.
The Highland Support Project is one of the most amazing organizations I have ever had the pleasure of working with! I worked with them in Guatemala in January of 2013 and again in Arizona that every August alongside Nursing Students Without Borders at VCU and was so inspired that I decided to go back a second time in 2014. They are truly an incredible institution dedicated to serving others and creating a safe and comfortable environment for all those interested in helping out their cause. I definitely plan on returning back to work with HSP in the forseeable future and cannot thank them enough for not only opening my eyes, but opening my heart to the wonderfuly generous and couragous work that they do.
I've worked with HSP in the office and in Guatemala for the stove building project in Spring 2014. Volunteering for them has been the most rewarding and fulfilling experience and I can't wait to continue working with them and their amazing efforts. The trip to Guatemala was exciting, smooth, and our groups of students were near old friends by the end (and we never wanted it to end). Volunteering for HSP and getting to know their founders has well has been enlightening to say the least. I've grown passionate for not only non-profit work but also social and political issues within Guatemala. I looooooove this organization, the people behind it, and the women and families they work with in Guatemala.
Juliana
Thank you so much for allowing me to help and heal using my butterfly credits at Care2. It's gives me and others a chance to help with all the actions we do. It's such a great feeling sending cement and knowing I am helping families in need and helping the planet.
My experience with the Highland Support Project is one that I will keep with me for a lifetime! I had the privilege of going to Guatemala in January of 2013 and worked with the women of AMA in an experience that I can honestly say changed my life and what perspective on volunteering. The HSP is full of dedicated, hard-working, and kind-hearted people who are nothing short of incredible. I look forward to working with them in Arizona this summer and hopefully back in Guatemala in the winter (and maybe later on in life as well!)
In January 2012 and January 2013, I had the privilege of working with HSP and their community residents in three rural villages. Nine Virginia Commonwealth University Nursing Without Borders students and I built stoves and conducted health screenings and education programs during our respective 10 day and 7 day stays. What I love about HSP is its commitment to collaborative/cooperative work in the villages versus what some folks call "hit and run" (drop in with supplies, then not show up again for another month or 6 months or longer). Members of the communities are active partners in all of the work that HSP supports. Through HSP I have experienced the true meaning of empowerment in its most positive way.
I had the most amazing spring break in Guatemala through the Highland Support Project. Although my group was only there for a week, we were still able to do so many amazing things - from visiting beautiful sites in the country to learning about the Guatemalan culture and helping their families and villages grow. It was a rewarding and unforgettable trip. It has inspired me to travel to other countries in need to volunteer and learn more about the world outside of the United States.
I traveled to Guatemala in March of 2010 with the Mayan Arts Program through a course I took at VCU. What drew me to this organization is their focus on sustainability rather than charity. We were instructed not to bring gifts of any kind, including candy, and instead concentrate on our goals and devote ourselves to them, which made for a richer experience. We didn't feel like we were there to "help" -- instead we felt like we were there to teach and be taught. My group spent our mornings working with children in their schools, and our afternoons and evenings were filled with extremely interesting, engaging and informative sessions with local artists, activists and spiritual scholars. When I returned home, I could immediately see the changes within myself -- that I was more open-minded, cognizant of my impact on the global community, and appreciative of the opportunities I have and had been given. I never felt like I was a patronizing Westerner. I felt like I was truly part of something big. The Highland Support Project focuses on transformational opportunities for both the volunteers and the Maya communities. I say they do an amazing job!
The Highland Support Project guided me through an unforgettable experience in Guatemala. They have inspired and prepared me for future endeavors in the nonprofit sector. The staff are extremely friendly and will also accommodate people who have additional needs. I could have not asked for a better nonprofit group for my first experience and would encourage others to also join the Highland Support Project.
I had an amazing time with Highland Support project in Guatemala!! The highland support project goes above and beyond for their cause I couldn't have picked a better non profit organization to go abroad with.
Absolutely wonderful experience. Working with them and experiencing the way they do their work in Guatemala has truly inspired me. They are so committed to a honoring the culture of the communities they support and to create truly sustainable resources. I can't say enough! And can't wait to go back :)
Logistically with our trip, also, they were completely professional and organized, as well as responsive and thoughtful of our mission and skills as a group.
I have to say that this is still the MOST AMAZING experience I have had in my life. Going to Guatemala, building stoves, planting trees, and engaging with people in the community was not only eye-opening, but life-changing. The HSP does wonderful work WITH the communities they serve, and brings AWARENESS to causes that should be important to everyone.
The Highland Support Project is a great non-profit organization and one of the few that actually does more help than harm in the communities they serve. HSP's mission is not only to develop, empower, and transform communities, but also to educate the more privileved communities through service-learning projects and lectures on Mayan history and culture. My experience in Guatemala, working alongside the wonderful people of HSP and AMA, is one I will treasure always. Together, we built stoves in the communities, worked in the schools presenting afforable art programs utilizing recycled materials, and participated in reforestation projects. I cannot wait to go back to Guatemala and once again volunteer my time and energy with the Highland Support Project.
Amazing trip to Guatemala AND I learned a lot. Just ask Ben why community development is better than plain charity and what he has to say will change your views. Eye opening experience!
Highland Support Project is an organization truly passionate about creating transformational change. I volunteered with HSP on a trip to Guatemala in 2009 and was blown away by the wealth of knowledge staff members had, the genuine relationships the organization had formed with people in partner countries, and the vision HSP had for both their volunteers and the communities they visited. I was so impressed that, when looking for a meaningful internship experience the following year, I immediately thought of Highland Support. I wanted to be a part of a goal-oriented organization with genuine values and transformative vision. HSP embodied all of these qualities and many, many more. My love for HSP and my belief that it is one of the rare, empowering agents of social change, have not wavered. The Highland Support experience is one that takes volunteers across geographic, socioeconomic, and cultural borders and truly changes the lives of everyone involved.
The Highland Support Project (HSP) is a stellar organization of social change. The organization balances substantive and meaningful solutions with culturally sensitive development tactics. For hands-on-volunteers, get involved in HSP's operations both in the United States and Guatemala. You will be part of meaningful cultural experiences. For businesses, establish relationships with the organization and learn from their model to foster independence. Top private sector firms are looking to build relationships with HSP. For other non-profit organizations, reach out to the leadership team to find ways for collaboration and resource sharing. This is an organization that marches towards strong values of exchange, empowerment, and creative solutions/enterprise.
Highland Support Project is absolutely wonderful! HSP provides a volunteer experience like no other. I have been on two different volunteer trips with HSP and I have worked with them as an intern for a month and a half in Guatemala. Each time I have had wonderful experiences. I have been on many volunteer trips outside of HSP and by far they are providing the best experiences! They are one of few organizations that legitimately provide a volunteer experience that benefits long term sustainable change for the communities they work in. This organization has found the perfect balance of "work", play, and education for their volunteers. Not only have I come back from their trips feeling good, but I feel educated on the issues happening in Guatemala and what we, as global citizens, can do to help! Coming from an education in International Affairs and Humanitarian Affairs, I can confidently attest to HSP's functional and brilliant model for change and empowerment. I love this organization! I have not worked with a better organization to date!!! Support HSP!!
Volunteering with HSP and going to Guatemala was eye opening and life changing. Everyone involved was amazing and I met many people i hope to work with again in the future.
My experience with HSP is a few years back now ... I felt like we were doing real work providing housing for war widows and their families. For anyone who is dedicated to service and wishes to see real people who are coming together to do relief and social justice the Highland Support Project is a class act! They've been around I'm guessing almost 20 years now providing housing, job skills training, immunizations and health screening. They provide supplies at reasonable prices to indigenous craftsmen and artisans... as well as supporting a market for their goods. They are dedicated to outreach and education about community, poverty, and how to cooperatively find solutions. I am always willing to give my time and resources to a fine organization such as this.
I loved the Highland Support Project, it was definitely one of the highlights of my college career. I truly felt that we made an impact on the lives of the people we helped, getting to know their beautiful country and their people, and making strong friendships while working with those who truly wanted to make a difference. I would highly recommend this to anyone who simply wants to help others while embarking on a wonderful life experience!
The Highland Support Project has been my true college. This non-profit is quite amazing. I traveled with them as a student and continued participation with them until even now, as a teacher. My experiences in working with this non-profit have shaped my life and career. They have facilitated grants and projects and are always open for new ideas .
I have taken youth on mission trips for decades, and the Highland Support Project is easily the best. The work was well within the capacity of my high school students and inexperienced adults. The work was simply a small part of the experience, however. The Highland Support Project staff and volunteers opened the whole team's eyes to justice work and to the implications of mission work. My group was challenged to consider their role in the political world and the ramifications of US involvement and/or lack thereof. My students got to understand the importance of community and family life, as they felt connected to the families and communities in which they worked, sometimes more so than the communities in which they grew up. This was an extraordinary, transformational, and life-changing experience.
I volunteered this summer, building stoves in one of the villages. The experience was great, the people were so authentic and the mission is so meaningful. The team is experienced and are passionate about their work.
This is by far the best organization I have had the opportunity t get involved with. They really focus on sustainability and relationships formed with the communities in Guatemala and not just the delivery of goods and supplies. However I would have to say that the best aspect of the Highland Support Project is its dedication to educate and involve students across all disciplines. They understand and realize the power in educating the younger generation and offer student so many opportunities to get involved and make a difference. They have impacted so many people and the passion that this organization holds in everything that it does is truly inspirational.
I have really enjoyed my time volunteering with The Highland Support Project. The organization is composed of wonderful accommodating individuals who are genuinely interested in what they are trying to accomplish. They are always up for new ideas and strengthening their ties with the community, here and abroad. I recommend this organization to anyone.
Working with Highland Support Project was not my first experience volunteering with an international nonprofit, but it was the first I had had with an organization that takes seriously the ethical implications of their projects and the self-determination of those they are serving. In the summer of 2010, I joined HSP in the highlands above Quetzaltenango to work collaboratively with Mayan midwives and health workers. What was truly unique about this experience was that the approach was wholly symbiotic, encouraging both involved groups (American and Guatemalan) to add value, empowering all participants every step of the way. Attention to political, historical, and social issues was paid during excursions, as every trip was an opportunity to learn and share. If ever I am asked which organization is the best to travel with in Central America, I always answer "That's easy- Highland Support Project outshines them all."
It was my junior year of college and I was really itching to get out of the country. While browsing on my university's study abroad website, I came across a service learning project in Guatemala. Little did I know that this service project would forever change me. At this time in my studies, my heart was set on med school. I had been preparing for my MCATs for some time. However, eight days with the Highland Support Project changed me for what I believe is the better! Rather than attending med school, I now work for a non profit in New Jersey that empowers and advocates on behalf of migrant farm workers. Without my experience with HSP, I do not believe that I would be in the position that I am today. What I liked most about the organization was their model of fostering agency rather than dependency. The changes that we were making did not last a day, a week or a year but a lifetime. I also liked the intimacy of the work that I was doing. Being able to work in somebody's home and knowing that our project was going to change their lives on multiple levels was an incredible experience. To me, there is no better feeling in the world than helping those in need. I have had the wonderful opportunity to volunteer with HSP twice. I also had an opportunity to collaborate with them on a separate project. While in Guatemala, they provided me with all the tools I needed to succeed! I cannot rave enough about this organization. Plain and simple, my experience working with the Highland Support Project changed my life!
I volunteered with HSP in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala the summer between my junior and senior years in college. I met my husband that summer and ended up moving to Guatemala with him after I graduated. We've been together for 10 wonderful years (the last 5 back in VA). I couldn't be more thankful to HSP for the amazing opportunity to visit what became my second home and meet the live of my life!
While working as a staff member for another Guatemalan NGO in Quetzaltenango, I had the pleasure of witness the Highland Support Project and AMA's inspiring work. Their emphasis on women's empowerment, their focus on working to break down dependence, and their longterm commitment to specific communities provides an excellent model for grassroots development and empowerment. HSP/AMA has a commitment to ethical practice that is rarely witnessed in the development field and has made a significant impact in the 20 years they have worked in the Guatemalan Highlands. I always readily use their organization as an example of Best Practice in grassroots development. Keep up the great work!!
I have been volunteering with HSP for 5 years and couldn't think more highly of their organization. Throughout my years serving on mission teams building stoves, I was so moved by my experiences in the village and working with the staff that I decided to pursue a summer internship under their guidance. Working with the staff this summer was a privilege and they were extremely flexible and supportive throughout the entire process. I learned so much both within my field of agriculture and also about NGO dynamics. HSP really has their act together - they are organized, coordination experts and an amazing vision for improving lives in communities from the ground up. Keep up the good work!
Highland Support Project is a wonderful organization that I am honored to have been a small part of for a week during college spring break. Their attempts to empower women in a country and culture that tends to discourage this type of behavior is both enlightened and important as Guatemala continues to experience a huge dichotomy between wealthy and poor in the country. I was able to interact with children and do what felt like something of real worth. My only regret is that I was only able to be there for 7 or 8 days. After experiencing this program, I decided that I will be returning to Guatemala after I earn my graduate degree to see what I can personally do to help bring about change in that country. HSP inspired me; the people who run the organization are dedicated, skilled, and truly care about the people and the country.