Connection, Culture, and the Power of English Education
It’s a typical early morning in October in Santiago Atitlán. Rainy season is coming to an end, and as the sun comes into full force, and the cloudy mist surrounding the lake and nearby volcanoes dissipates, streets slowly fill with the hum of tuk-tuks, vendors getting ready for another busy day at the market and children making their way to school. In the classroom, our volunteers are preparing vocabulary activities, flashcards and games, ready to help students take their next steps in English.
This October, we’ve captured what life looks like for our volunteers in Santiago, both inside and outside the classroom. Check out the video below from one of our recent volunteers!
Teaching and Learning Together
By October, the school year in Guatemala is nearing its end, and energy in the classrooms is high. Our volunteers work alongside local teachers to help students review what they’ve learned, gain confidence in speaking, and celebrate their progress.
From teaching English songs to planning conversation games, volunteers see firsthand how eager students are to communicate.
“I remember when one of my students spoke in front of the class in English for the first time. He was very surprised, but also very proud!” shared Ania, one of our regular volunteers. “Moments like that are really bring home why we volunteer in this community.”
Our program focuses on teaching English in rural Guatemala, giving children in public schools opportunities that can open doors in the future, for study, tourism, or employment.
October in Santiago Atitlán
October in Santiago has its own rhythm. It’s the tail end of the rainy season which typically begins in late April to early may, and while mornings are sunny, afternoons can still bring fresh showers that cool the streets. The markets are alive with color, local crafts, fresh corn, and handwoven textiles.
For our volunteers, it’s a time of reflection and connection. After weeks of teaching, they’ve built strong relationships with students, host families, and local partners. Some help with final projects in the Learning Centre, while others prepare English lessons for community groups and adult learners.
The combination of teaching and immersion makes Santiago a truly special place to volunteer in Guatemala. We commonly hear from our volunteers that they learn as much as they teach, and importantly they learn about the value and significance of community, of supporting each other and being a part of something bigger than themselves.
The Heart of the Experience: Living and Volunteering Locally
All our volunteers live with host families, sharing meals, stories, and often laughs. This cultural exchange is often one of the most memorable parts of the experience.
“My host mum taught me how to make tamalitos de chipilin,” one volunteer said. “We’d talk about our days, or at least attempt to, as I’m still learning Spanish! But, somehow we understood each other perfectly.”
These everyday moments, walking to class past Lake Atitlán, chatting with students in the street, joining in local celebrations, remind us that volunteering is not just service; it’s connection.
Why Volunteering Matters
Volunteers are at the heart of One, Two… Tree!’s mission. Their dedication helps expand access to English education in Santiago Atitlán and strengthens partnerships with local schools.
Through their work, students gain not just new vocabulary but also confidence, curiosity, and hope. The impact reaches beyond the classroom, it empowers families, supports teachers, and helps build bridges between cultures.
Join Us in Making a Difference – Volunteer Abroad for Free
If you’ve ever thought about teaching English abroad or volunteering in Guatemala, Santiago Atitlán is the perfect place to start. You don’t need to be a teacher — just open-minded, adaptable, and ready to learn. Our volunteer programs are completely free, and you only pay for your travel and living expenses, including your accommodation, which we help to arrange with a local homestay family.
Our volunteers come from all over the world and leave with lifelong memories, friendships, and a deeper understanding of what community means.
Learn more about volunteering with One, Two… Tree!
Check out our volunteer page for more information about volunteering with us: Volunteer
Or, if you can’t travel right now, there are other ways to help – by donating, sharing our story, or simply spreading the word.