Smiles All Around for West Tennesseans and Guatemalans
Thirteen travelers chose a fall break option a little more fulfilling than "chilling" as they spent their week away from classrooms in Guatemala. October 2-7. They poked, prodded, painted and even threw in a bit of sunrise paddleboarding with Global Citizen Adventure Corps (GCAC) and Bethel University's Global Studies Program (BU).
Leading the group were Stacie Freeman, BU Global Studies Director and Co-Founder of Global Citizen Adventure Corps which helped scholarship six of the traveler’s experiences, and Jennifer Sutherland-Miller, a GCAC board member, integrated education expert working on her master's degree in Global Development Practice at Harvard University.
The service portion of the six-day experience focused on the local dental hygiene project of the Guatemalan Cumberland Presbyterian Church and painting part of the Konojel Community Center, an organization dedicated to the health and wellbeing of Indigenous women and children.
“Since oral health is essential to overall well-being, we were thrilled to deliver hundreds of toothbrushes, toothpaste, and several bottles of fluoride to help schoolchildren improve their dental health,” said Freeman. “And at Konojel, painting the facility was combined with support of their Healthy Babies Program with a donation of high-quality prenatal vitamins and other medications.”
Freeman expressed thanks to West Tennessee supporters who made the donations possible: Joel T. Washburn, Teresa Washburn, members of the dual enrollment sociology class at Dresden High School, GCAC board members, BU board members Ed Perkins and Nancy Mouser Bean, and Tricia Trull.
Though the young adults worked hard, they also explored the busy streets of Guatemala City and the serene beauty of San Marcos, Lake Atitlan including a hike through the South American jungle and sunrise paddleboarding in the shadow of an active Volcán Atitlán.
In Santiago Atitlan, the eager students received a traditional cooking lesson in the home of a local family where they gained insights into the importance of family and community in daily life.
They also delved into the rich tapestry of Mayan spirituality by learning about Maximono, the Mayan god. Freeman, a sociology professor, notes that the god could be that “of alcohol, mischief, and revelry or health and protection … depending on how you look at it.”
“Understanding figures like Maximono helps us gain insight into the cultural and religious beliefs that shape the lives of the communities we serve. It reminds us of the importance of approaching cultures with respect, curiosity, and a willingness to learn,” she said.
Another highlight of the adventure was attending a demonstration led by a renown weaver. The group learned about the intricate process and rich cultural significance behind each piece.
“Unfortunately, many Indigenous traditions are fading away, making it all the more important to support local artisans by purchasing their beautiful wares and preserving their crafts for future generations,” explained Freeman.
Traveler Allie Inman from Medina said the time in San Marcos with Imelda, the weaver was her favorite part of the program and called it an honor to receive the rare invitation to visit in her home. Hearing the story of how her handwoven creations can take her up to a month to complete, seeing a demonstration, and getting the chance to try the loom, made an impression.
“Being in her home was a very humbling experience and reminded me of the privileges I take for granted living in America,” Inman shared. “It was such a blessing to meet and get to know Imelda, and I hope to see her again when I make a trip back to Guatemala.”
Instilling in first generation travelers the desire to see and do more globally is the goal of GCAC programs, Freeman noted.
“This trip was not just about giving; it was also about growing, learning, and building connections that transcend borders. We are so grateful to our Guatemalan partners, dedicated and inspiring GCAC board members like Jennifer, Bethel University and GCAC supporters who donated funds for six scholarships. Without them this meaningful fall break adventure would not have been possible.”
Group participants joining Freeman, Inman, and Sutherland-Miller of Wolfe Island, Canada, were Lilian Freeman of Dresden, TN; Alyssa and Sherrie Hudson of Gleason, TN; Mia Jackson of Casa Grande, AZ; Michael Raymer of Paris, TN; Caleb and Sarah Rougeau of Huntingdon, TN; Raanan Sellers of Troy, TN; Ellie Williams of New Brunswick, Canada; and Alyssa Young of Memphis, TN.
