We Are Living Heritage
For 16 years, we've walked alongside rural communities in Western Guatemala — not to impose solutions, but to empower them to lead their own transformation. Every project, every scholarship, every water filter is a partnership.
The Challenge
Western Guatemala faces deep inequalities. These are the realities we confront every day.
Education Gap
Only 3 in 10 children in rural areas finish high school. Most schools lack basic infrastructure — no walls, no desks, no bathrooms.
Water Crisis
Over 40% of rural families lack access to clean drinking water. Waterborne diseases are the leading cause of child hospitalization.
Healthcare Access
The nearest clinic can be 3+ hours away. Many families have never seen a doctor. Preventable diseases go untreated.
This is where you come in.
These aren't just statistics. They're families, children, and communities ready to thrive — they just need someone to walk alongside them.
Economic Need
60% of families live on less than $5/day. Migration is often seen as the only option. We create alternatives through entrepreneurship.
Environmental Risk
Deforestation and climate change threaten already vulnerable communities. Reforestation and sustainable farming are urgent.
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."
— Carla González, 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.
Our Mission
To reduce poverty through sustainable community development in Western Guatemala — working with families, not for them — through education, health, clean water, environment, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship.
Our Vision
Families and communities in Western Guatemala are empowered to lead their own sustainable growth — with access to education, health, clean water, and economic opportunities for generations to come.
Your Donation in Action
Every dollar goes directly to programs. Here's what your support makes possible.
Provides a bio-sand water filter + training for a family. Clean water for 10+ years.
Funds a full scholarship for one student for one year. Includes shoes, backpack, and supplies.
Supplies an entire medical brigade. Medicine, consultations, and follow-up for 50+ patients.
Be Part of the Story
Every donation, every share, every volunteer hour creates ripples that last for generations.
100% of your donation goes directly to programs. No administrative fees. No hidden costs.