UPAVIM Community Development Foundation

July 2024

UPAVIM (Unidas Para Vivir Mejor) is a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering the community of La Esperanza, Guatemala, through education and economic opportunity. Founded in 1988 by a group of determined women, UPAVIM has evolved into a key community organization that addresses the urgent threats of poverty, violence, and social isolation facing the residents of La Esperanza and surrounding areas. One way they are addressing the needs in their community is through Montessori education. They want to have well trained Montessori teachers and well-equipped classrooms, to provide high-quality education from infancy through 6th grade, thus preparing students for success in secondary school and beyond.

Their objective is to send one teacher to attain her AMI Elementary guide diploma. Upon completion of her training, she will transition into the role of Pedagogical Coordinator at the school. In this capacity, she will serve as a facilitator, ensuring the proper implementation of the Montessori method. She will also provide training and professional development opportunities for teachers, ensuring they are well-prepared to work with children and nurture their full potential. Additionally, our aim is for her to lead parent workshops covering various topics to support the community in La Esperanza in applying Montessori principles in child-rearing.

A transformational gift from MGGF will help UPAVIM reach their objective of training one AMI Elementary guide.