A Year of Growth, Challenges, and Hope – 2024 in Review
As we enter 2025, the Wellkind Guatemala team reflects on a year filled with growth, collaboration, and resilience. Thanks to your unwavering support, we’ve been able to achieve milestones that are laying the foundation for a sustainable future for Lake Atitlán and its surrounding communities. This year has been a testament to the power of collective action in preserving this beautiful and ecologically rich region of Guatemala.
At the heart of our work has been reforestation. In 2024, we planted over 31,000 native trees, with a remarkable 85% survival rate. These trees are more than just saplings; they represent our commitment to restoring biodiversity, improving soil health, and ensuring long-term access to vital resources for local communities. Our work expanded into the upper Lake Atitlán watershed with two new reforestation projects in Chuimanzana and in Chichicastenago, which have both already started. This initiative will play a crucial role in restoring the area’s fragile ecosystem, boosting water availability, and supporting local agriculture.
Beyond reforestation, we’ve focused on building relationships with local communities and empowering the next generation of environmental leaders. A highlight of this year was hosting a group of volunteers from Boise, Idaho, who worked alongside us on community projects, including school improvements and environmental awareness campaigns. Additionally, we launched a new internship program in partnership with the University of UVG, offering students hands-on experience in environmental conservation. These initiatives are helping foster local leadership and ensure that future generations are equipped to tackle the region’s environmental challenges.
In 2024, we also embraced innovative approaches to sustainability. One such project was Agua Sana, a collaboration with Water for Life Global to install a gray water filtration system in local households. This system transformed wastewater into a nutrient-rich resource for a nearby food forest, showcasing how permaculture techniques can contribute to sustainable agriculture. These projects are just the beginning of our broader vision for Lake Atitlán—a vision that includes not only environmental restoration but also sustainable development and community empowerment.
As we look to 2025, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. Our reforestation efforts will expand further, with a focus on large-scale initiatives in Chichicastenango, and our tree nursery will continue to grow, ensuring that we have the resources to meet the increasing demand for native tree saplings. Our partnerships with local leaders, students, and organizations will deepen, strengthening our ability to make lasting change in the region.
Looking back on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the support of our community and partners. Together, we have made significant strides in preserving the ecosystems of Lake Atitlán and ensuring a more sustainable future for all who depend on its resources. Thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to continuing this vital work in 2025.
