Amigos de Jaibalito Foundation (AdJ) was established due to the poor quality of the public education system in Jaibalito. Previous to AdJ, Jaibalito had no preschool program, low attendance in all grades, and a high dropout rate. Supplies and equipment were lacking and no nutrition program existed. The classroom interiors were uninspiring and in deteriorating condition. AdJ's mission is to improve the quality of life for Jaibalito residents, starting with the children and their education.

AdJ knew that every young child needs a healthy diet to be able to learn. As Guatemala has the fourth highest rate of malnutrition in the world, we started a breakfast program for the Pre-K and Kinder classes. We served a healthy breakfast for five months when a Guatemalan foundation took over. Our primary goal has always been education. We are committed to improving the education of the students with improved curricula, Internet access, teacher training and necessary supplies.

AdJ has continued to expand its role in supporting Jaibalito. We have donated laptops and a printer to the local library and pay for Internet access for students to use in their research. We support higher education through scholarships. We worked with the people of Jaibalito to build a playground that is also now a town park. The recycling project is now using part of this space as well. Also, as needed, we continue to assist with community improvement (i.e, new bridge, sponsoring community clean-up days and so forth).

Amigos de Jaibalito Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible. There are no overhead expenses. All work related to our activities is done by board members and other volunteers.