The smiles. The laughs. The pure joy.
 
That’s what brings a group of women back to Guatemala again and again. Serving vulnerable children through Buckner Guatemala blesses the children with new shoes, backpacks and school supplies, but it blesses the mission trip participants even more.
 
This week, the group finished their back-to-school trip in their 13th year of service in Guatemala, giving several hundred children backpacks and shoes donated through Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®.
 
The trip took place in the days leading up to the first day of school in the country, encouraging students to have a great academic year. Team members taught hygiene classes and Bible stories as well as washed children’s feet, shared uplifting notes and prayed with them. The children served are involved in programs at Buckner Family Hope Centers, which strengthen families.
 
The volunteers have seen Buckner Guatemala grow throughout the years, transforming the lives of thousands through empowering programs for families. As families have grown stronger, they are able to support themselves and their children. Now, they're helping others through Buckner by volunteering at various events. 

That was never more true than this week. The team from the United States was outnumbered 2-to-1 by Guatemalan volunteers who led songs, provided logistical support, placed shoes on the feet of children, led crafts and translated for the mission group. 

Hope truly shines in Guatemala. And those impacted want to share hope with others. 

See highlights of the group in action below: