Pixlrabbit Building Connections and Hope in Guatemala

This August I had the privilege of traveling to Guatemala with a group called the M4 Institute. The trip was part service, part learning experience - and all heart. Our focus was on sustainable agriculture, clean water access, health, and nutrition education. I am excited to share about the trip and how partnering with Pixlrabbit on web design and marketing can help make a difference in the world.

Building Greenhouses for Sustainable Farming

One of our main projects was helping local farmers build greenhouses. These greenhouses are life changing. Instead of relying on a single harvest each year, the structures allow farmers to grow and harvest three times annually. The greenhouses connect to a steady water source, so that even when there’s a drought in the rainy season, they are sustainable and productive. Seeing how a simple structure could transform food security for families was incredibly inspiring.

Clean Water in Classrooms

Another key part of the trip was working in local schools to install and maintain water filtration systems. Most schools don’t have access to safe drinking water for their students. With proper care, the filters we set up can process up to 150 gallons of clean water a day - for 10 years at a cost of $45!

We cleaned and repaired filters already in place, then taught teachers and students how to care for them. Just as important, we talked with kids about why water matters. Many children drink sodas or powdered drink mixes like Tang instead of agua pura - pure water - so they experience headaches and a lack of energy among other health problems. 

Nutrition Education and Career Day

In addition to talking about water, we held interactive nutrition lessons. I talked to them about the difference between a fresh strawberry and a strawberry lollipop—one full of nutrients and fiber, the other full of sugar and artificial flavors. We talked about all different kinds of fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and proteins. We asked the students who their favorite futbol player was, Cristiano Ronaldo, and what they thought he ate. Watching their faces light up as they made the connections between healthy eating and a healthy body was a highlight of the trip.

Towards the end of the week we spoke to the older kids about our careers and how our faith has led us to our careers. It’s almost unbelievable that this September I will have had Pixlrabbit for 10 years! I have had the honor of working with people from all over the world!

Conversations with Women’s Groups

I think my favorite part of the trip was meeting with the women’s small groups. Sharing my own stories about pregnancy and motherhood in order to connect was just awesome. I had the opportunity to sit with them and lead discussions about maternal health and nutrition. These conversations focused on the importance of drinking clean water and eating a balanced diet for both mothers and their unborn children. Afterward, we talked and did crafts together - a simple but meaningful way to connect across cultures and languages.

Creative use for plastic bottles as planters

Reflections

This trip was more than just service work. It was about building relationships, exchanging knowledge, and supporting local communities as they take steps toward healthier, more sustainable futures.

I came back with a deeper appreciation for the basics we often take for granted - clean water and air, nutritious food, access to health education, consistent hot water, and honestly, the ability to flush toilet paper! I returned inspired by the ability of the Guatemalan people to create beauty all around them and their bond to family and community.

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