Building Bright Futures

The families of San Marcos deserve access to the resources they need to be healthy and thriving

Konojel was founded in 2011 with the mission of addressing malnutrition among at-risk indigenous residents of San Marcos la Laguna, a picturesque yet economically vulnerable town on the shores of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala. What began as a simple initiative to provide daily nutritious meals has since grown into the Konojel Community Center, a hub of opportunity and empowerment for the local population. Now, in 2025, we are serving 100 families through our health, nutrition, education, and entrepreneurship programs.

[pictured: Maynor and his mom signing the Young Leaders program agreement]

Through collaborative efforts and partnerships, the organization ensures that the aspirations of the indigenous Kaqchikel community remain central to its work. Programs like "Young Leaders" allow students' like Maynor above, to register for secondary education - something otherwise unavailable to many families. At the heart of Konojel’s mission is a commitment to improving the standard of living in San Marcos la Laguna by strengthening children, women, and youth through targeted initiatives in nutrition, education, and empowerment.

Our annual fundraiser, Building Bright Futures, is how we continue funding programs centered around breaking cycles of poverty and creating lasting change. Konojel envisions a future where its impact is widely recognized for enhancing the well-being and development of San Marcos la Laguna.

[pictured: Magdalena and her son, Marcos (17 months)]

Your donation will help us continue operating the only community center in San Marcos La Laguna where pregnant mothers can access free prenatal vitamins, nutritional support, and empowering education - and where indigenous students gain access to computers and academic enrichment workshops.

Every donation matters and change happens when we work - all together.

Learn more about our work on Instagram @Konojel and our website.