Amigos de Jaibalito Foundation (AdJ) was established because of a concern over the poor quality of the public education system in Jaibalito. There was no preschool program and attendance in all grades was poor with a very high dropout rate. Supplies and equipment were lacking and no nutrition program existed. The classroom interiors were uninspiring and in deteriorating condition.

AdJ knew that the first step for a young child to learn is the need for a healthy diet. As Guatemala has the fourth highest rate of malnutrition in the world, we started a breakfast program for the Pre-K and Kinder classes that ran five months. Later, a Guatemalan foundation took over. As our primary goal has always been education, a member of our Board who was a retired teacher living nearby volunteered to observe classes. We continue to be 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 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.