MISSION TO GUATEMALA

 A UNIQUE MISSION EXPERIENCE AMONG THE URBAN POOR
 

Come join Fr. Tom Goekler and work with disadvantaged youth in San Pedro Sula.  Here you will be able to interact with young people learning to change their lives.  Fr. Tom says: "I'm well known to all the gangs now. They know I treat them all the same -- which is setting limits, seeing how we can get them on their feet, seeing if we can reintegrate them into society. The fact is I like them all. You might say I'm pro-person. I was taught that by Dorothy Day and Gustavo Gutierrez and others -- including Jesus".

PROJECT DIRECTOR:  FR. TOM GOEKLER, M.M.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Tutoring disadvantaged urban youth in English.  Homework help.  Repairing family dwellings.  Teaching computer skills.

DURATION:  

2-3 months teaching 2-3 periods per day.  This length of time can be extended. 

HOUSING: 

Provided at Fr. Tom's youth residence, or host families in the area.  Living conditions are adequate but emphasize a simple lifestyle. The director invites the volunteer to share meals at the youth residence.

COSTS:  

The volunteer would be expected to pay airfare to and from Guatemala.  At times, he/she may wish to take some meals at local restaurants.  A meal would average $12.  Local transportation (taxi, bus) is inexpensive.  A taxi to the downtown area costs about $4 one way.  The volunteer would be responsible for any needs she/he may have outside of the actual lodging and regular meal schedule.

SUPPORT:  

The youth project is located about 5 miles from the Maryknoll Center House.  A Maryknoller  would accompany the volunteer on a regular basis.  Also, the Maryknoller director would be available to assist the volunteer should he/she need to buy anything or need special services (travel agent, money exchange, basic shopping, postal services, etc.).  For communal prayer the volunteer would be welcome to pray with the youth at the project.

CHALLENGES: 

The youth center is a well organized pastoral center with different programs and functions taking place each day.  One is never alone there! Spanish is spoken by all the youth and it would be necessary for the volunteer to have a working knowledge of the Spanish language.  Since the youth project is a community endeavor, one need not be concerned about personal security when walking around.