The Main (school) building of the Mayan Center is now 95% complete, with solar power systems now being added. Potential students at the school have been attending practical classes on veterinary training, carpentry and other trades given by visiting volunteer professionals. In turn, these young Mayans have plied their newly acquired skills into helping with the raising of animals for food and the construction of furniture such as desks, chairs, benches, bookcases and beds. They have also been working on the construction of small dormitory houses, since most if not all the full time students that will be attending the school when it opens come from villages many hours drive (or days walk) from the center and will need lodging and food.

The creation of the center is a monumental achievement that is owing to the generosity of our donors and volunteers and the hard work of the residents of the surrounding villages. For the first time in this area of Guatemala, Maya youth who qualify for admission will have the opportunity to receive a high school education and all the benefits such an education will provide.

The need for funding for scholarships is now more imperative than ever, since the school plans to open shortly once final permits to hold a full academic curriculum are received by the organization from the Government. Applications for scholarships are currently being distributed to and accepted from students completing Grade 9 this year.

Local educators will have to be paid to teach and live at the center, and it is through student scholarships that much of this money will be obtained.

AAV continues to fund-raise for students’ scholarships. As the center nears completion, the need for scholarship funds becomes more immediate and critical. The Maya need financial assistance to realize their long-denied dream of obtaining an education that will afford them the skills they need to improve their own lives and those of their fellow villagers. Please join us in this endeavor. To those who have already provided donations for scholarships, AAV thanks you on behalf of the very appreciative Maya.