For generations, Mayans been over run by european colonialists and big U.S. business enterprise.  In Guatemala, as their lands were taken, unrest erupted.   From 1960 to 1996, Civil war in Guatemala pitted the established government powers against the mostly indigenous Mayan population.  Today, Mayans make up about 42% of the 17 million inhabitants of Guatemala.  The aftermath of genocide and civil rights abuses still impact the country.  80 percent of Guatemalan Mayans live in poverty today.  33% cannot read or write and about 8 of 10 children do not graduate from High school.

A non-profit called Common Hope seeks to break the cycle of poverty with a wholistic approach to education.  Today, I am speaking with Shari Blindt, the executive Director of Common hope, and Avi Mylera, the Associate Director of Strategic Relations and Visitor Experience.  Shari has been with Common hope for close to 15 years, since she felt called to serve the Guatemalan people after adopting two Guatemalan Children.  Avi was born and raised in Guatemala, and came to study in the U.S., earning her masters degree in Public and Non-Profit Administration.  Her work with Common hope allows her to stay connected to her homeland, and she has an electric energy about her country and is a true inspiration for people with even the slightest interest for those interested in visiting Guatemala.  Ten minutes with Avi was all I needed to get involved.  I have sponsored one child's education and it is a wonderful investment in a young person's life.

This year, they are celebrating 35 years of success, and are doing a "Walk for Hope" wherein you can take a walk and help raise money.  This is just one way to get involved.Check out their website www.commonhope.org.  You may contact Shari at Sharib@us.commonhope.org or Avi at Avim@us.commonhope.org.