In this Alternative Break program, volunteers from the Washington University School of Medicine Occupational Therapy program will join Service For Peace for a third year in a row to learn and practice occupational therapy at a variety of Guatemalan institutions. Service For Peace has been working in the partner Communities of Peace in Guatemala since 2008. 

Participants will engage with local patients, practitioners, students, and staff members to observe and serve at established Communities of Peace, including ANINI, a school and orphanage for children with severe mental and physical disabilities, San Martín's Special Education School, and more. These communities have developed relationships not only with Service For Peace but also with Washington University over the last several years, and have come to appreciate the service and the professional advice from WU staff members and volunteers.

New to this year's program will be interactive visits to several new institutions in Guatemala City and Antigua, exploring new themes of adult occupational therapy services.

Global PeaceMakers projects bring together young adults from nations throughout the Americas and the world in an effort to offer models for intercultural cooperation through service.

The GPM is a service-learning project with a special focus on building personal leadership and peacemaking skills through service. Also woven into the schedule is time to see and experience the local culture and beautiful landscapes of Guatemala--a fascinating culture that is sure to leave a mark on your heart.

Want to know more? Contact Janna at jgullery@serviceforpeace.org for more info!

Washington University volunteer hangin' with kids at ANINI

Washington University volunteer hangin' with kids at ANINI

Washington University volunteer and kids are all smiles in San Martin

Washington University volunteer and kids are all smiles in San Martin

Sharing culture and practice at a local clinic

Sharing culture and practice at a local clinic

Students from Washington University share with clinical therapists and students from the Mariano Galvez University

Volunteers paint a brighter place for kids at the ANINI orphanage

Volunteers paint a brighter place for kids at the ANINI orphanage

Volunteers bond with kids at the ANINI school and orphanage

Volunteers bond with kids at the ANINI school and orphanage