Our Director, Maria Madai Yojcom Cruz, writes: (translated from the Spanish)

I live with my mother and brother in San Juan La Laguna, Solola`, where I was born in 1997. My father died when I was 11, and my mother has dedicated all her efforts to the family. I have learned that with struggle, perseverence and help one can advance.

I expected to receive my full credentials as a Social Worker in May, 2020, but the onset of the corona virus will delay that. I identify with this profession as a way to assist the many families which, because, of great scarcity of resourses, need direction and counsel. (Note: Madai, as of 2021, IS now fully credentialed!!!)

Many believe that social work is welfare, but social work goes beyond economic and material support offered to a population, also providing moral and idealogical support. We help people find the best solution for their own needs and problems with professional support and opportunities that allow them to break social barriers and give them the space to be agents of their own change.

One of my expectations is to help this population become critical and analytical in any situation which will encourage not only economic but also emotional stability. As Director of GHA, i encourage a culture of social education, innovating and strengthening the capabilities of each individual. This has allowed opportunities for social integration and entrepreneurship within the illiterate and indigenous populations.

My social commitment is to promote changes based on the defense of human rights and to help this vulnerable population feel capable of advancing without any oppression. As professionals, the constant struggle is to promote a just and egalitarian society, for the well being of all.

GHA’s Social Worker, Cecilia Amarilis Batz Bizarro, writes: (translated from the Spanish)

I was born in the Municipality of San Juan La Laguna, Solola`, March 13, 1993, and have since childhood lived in the town’s center. Since infancy my parents have taught me pricipal values like humility, respect, responsibility and the value of the word.

I am an extroverted person, happy with my life. I completed primary and secondary school at Colegio Catolico La Salle en San Juan La Laguna, and high school at the Instituto Tecnologico de Computacion in Panajachel. I expect to graduate in 2022 with a degree in Social Work from the Universidad Mariano Galvez de Guatemala in Solola`.

I am now working as Social Worker for Guatemala Housing Alliance, seeking the well being of the people, promoting social changes in the communities of San Pablo La Laguna and Aldea Pasajquim. In my role I attend to societal needs whether in families or groups, or in the community environments in which they live.

My most important roles

• Making training available so people can acquire abilities to better face problems that affect them individually or collectively.

• Ensuring that programs are carried out for the well being of all the families involved with Guatemala Housing Alliance.

• Determining and evaluating the viability of programs and projects that are presented within the institution.

• Helping people develop their potential and enrich their lives.

• Acting as educator, moderator and facilitator.

• Listening and providing necessary care to the families of GHA’s sponsored students.