Who We Are
Everyone leaves a legacy. The question is: what heritage do we want to live on in the next generations?
In western Guatemala, communities don't need someone to tell them what to do — they need an ally who believes in them.
We walk alongside them so that sustainable development is not imposed, but born from the communities themselves.
Read Our Story →Our Impact
Transforming communities, one family at a time
Leave a Legacy That Lasts
Your will can be a bridge between your life's work and a better future for families in Guatemala.
Why Leave a Legacy?
By including Living Heritage Foundation in your will, you ensure that your values live on. Your gift — no matter the size — will continue transforming communities for generations.
How It Works
You can name us as a beneficiary in your will, trust, retirement account, or life insurance policy. It's simple, tax-efficient, and doesn't affect your current assets.
Tax Benefits (USA)
As a 501(c)(3) equivalent partner, your estate may qualify for a charitable estate tax deduction. Consult your tax advisor — you could reduce estate taxes while supporting a cause you believe in.
Your Impact Lives On
A legacy gift can fund scholarships for 100+ students, install 500+ water filters, or build entire schools. Your name becomes part of every life changed.
Interested in Learning More?
We'd love to discuss how you can include Living Heritage Foundation in your estate plans. No obligation — just information.
Suggested language for your will:
"I give, devise, and bequeath to Living Heritage Foundation (NIT: XXXXX-X) the sum of $___ to be used for its general charitable purposes."
We recommend consulting with your attorney or tax professional when planning your estate.
Our Programs
Comprehensive solutions for lasting change
Education
Scholarships, tutoring, and educational resources for children and youth in rural communities.
Health Care
Medical brigades, health education, and access to healthcare for underserved families.
Water Filters
Installation of bio-sand water filters providing clean drinking water to families.
Environment
Reforestation projects, organic farming, and environmental education programs.
Infrastructure
Building schools, community centers, and improving basic infrastructure in villages.
Entrepreneurship
Micro-loans, vocational training, and support for small family businesses.
They Left Their Mark
People like you chose to let their legacy live on in Guatemala
We decided to include Living Heritage in our will because we saw firsthand how they transform communities. Every scholarship, every water filter, every small business — it's hope made real. And we want that to continue when we're no longer here.
Maria & Tom San Diego, CA Legacy Donors Since 2024
[REPLACE WITH YOUR DONOR'S TESTIMONIAL]
[DONOR NAME] [CITY, STATE] Legacy Donor Since [YEAR]
[REPLACE WITH YOUR DONOR'S TESTIMONIAL]
[DONOR NAME] [CITY, STATE] Legacy Donor Since [YEAR]
Have you already included us in your will?
Let us know and we'll welcome you to our Heritage Circle.
Our Allies
Organizations that trust our work
Built on a Simple Belief
Living Heritage Foundation was born in 2010 from one conviction: real change doesn't come from outsiders — it comes from within communities.
We don't build schools for communities. We build them with communities. We don't distribute water filters and leave. We train local leaders to maintain them. We don't give scholarships and forget. We walk alongside every student until they become professionals who give back.
Our model is simple: listen first, partner always, empower forever.
"The most valuable heritage is not what we give — it's what we build together, walking alongside communities so they can own their own future."
— Jesús De León, Director100% Transparency
Every dollar is tracked. We report back to every donor. No surprises.
Locally Led
All staff are Guatemalan. Community leaders make the decisions.
Legally Registered
Ministerial Agreement No. 113-2012. Fully recognized nonprofit.
Stories of Hope
Real voices from the communities we serve
"Thanks to the water filter, my children no longer get sick. We now have clean water at home."
"The scholarship allowed me to finish high school. Now I'm studying nursing to help my community."
"With the micro-loan, I started my own sewing business. Now I can support my family independently."
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about leaving a legacy
Do I have to leave a large amount? ▼
No. Any amount, no matter how small, transforms lives in Guatemala. What matters is the gesture, not the size.
Can I leave a percentage of my estate? ▼
Yes, it's one of the most common ways. You can leave any percentage you choose — 1%, 5%, 10%, or any amount.
What ways can I leave a legacy gift? ▼
You can name us as a beneficiary in your will, trust, retirement account (IRA/401k), or life insurance policy. Each has different tax advantages.
Can I change my mind later? ▼
Yes. Your will can be updated at any time. There is no permanent commitment, and you remain in full control.
Is Living Heritage Foundation a 501(c)(3)? ▼
Yes. We are a 501(c)(3) equivalent organization in the U.S. Your legacy gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Can I donate to a specific program? ▼
Absolutely. You can designate your legacy to Education, Health, Water Filters, Entrepreneurship, or where it's needed most.
How do I know my gift will be used well? ▼
You will receive annual impact reports with photos, stories, and metrics. Total transparency. We take our stewardship seriously.
What if the organization ceases to exist? ▼
Your gift would be redirected to a similar charitable cause according to your instructions. We can discuss options when you plan your legacy.
Stay Connected
Join our community of changemakers
Get impact stories, program updates, and ways to make a difference.
💚 We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.