Newsletter

A lifelong impact What happens to a student after they graduate from Escuela Integrada? With the school now in its 21st year, we are seeing the cyclical change that can occur in families simply by completing an education in Guatemala. As an organization we are working to improve our data-tracking capabilities so that we can…

Did you know that the academic year in Guatemala runs from January to October? This means school is almost out for summer for the kids and teachers at Escuela Integrada! The end of the year is an exciting time of celebration for the students, families and teachers. This week, students are completing their final exams…

As we recently wrapped up our Annual Sponsorship Appreciation Week, I wanted to take some time to reflect on and address some important aspects of our Sponsorship Program. GRACES Sponsorship Program is different from other sponsorship programs with large nonprofit organizations. This is an intentional difference and it centers on the concept of relationship building.…

Nearly ten years ago, a small group of people from the U.S. and Guatemala met in Antigua to discuss how they could continue to fund Escuela Integrada—despite extreme financial challenges. A newly-formed nonprofit, GRACES, sought to keep Escuela Integrada afloat. That moment became known as the first Supporters Gathering. Year after year, the practice of…

Nehemiah Project donates new computers for Escuela Integrada computer lab The Nehemiah Project donated 23 new laptop computers for the computer lab at Escuela Integrada! The new computers will be used for both the elementary and middle school levels, serving students from first through ninth grade. “This donation allows each student to use a computer…

Amigo of GRACES: A new way to support GRACES with a recurring gift Become an Amigo of GRACES with a recurring monthly donation! Monthly giving provides a stable and predictable source of income for our organization, and multiplies your impact over time. Even a modest amount compounds over time and makes a significant difference for…

GRACES is officially 10 years old today! Ten years ago, Escuela Integrada was on the brink of closing its doors after the previous funding organization dissolved. Thankfully, a group of dedicated volunteers quickly formed a new entity to preserve Escuela Integrada in their moment of greatest need. “It was easy to be ‘all in,’” said…

Your registration supports the runners at Escuela Integrada! Racing for GRACES is back… with a new name! Join us this year for Corriendo por Oportunidades on May 4, 2024. The race will be held in person in Guatemala with students, staff and families participating in a 3k or 6k race. The race will leave from…

After several years of dedicated service in Guatemala, GRACES Sponsorship Coordinator Lucas Hertzberg is moving back to the United States. Lucas first joined us in 2019 as a summer intern and returned in 2021 to work with us. “Lucas grew and led the sponsorship program, and I am so grateful for his hard work,” said…

Dear Friends, You might or might not be surprised to know that 54% of the population in Guatemala lives in poverty (less than $2.15 a day). I live in Guatemala—which has been amazing and beautiful in so many ways—but I feel the weight of the need here. I feel it with the families we work…