"Before we arrived in Secanquin in November of 2010, I was skeptical as to whether or not we could really make a difference. However, when we visited the village of Chimaxyat where another group had recently been, I saw school buildings, soccer fields, and hope. Playing soccer with the kids and seeing their smiling faces let me know that even if we were just making a difference in one of their lives, it was worth it."

"It is our company's mission to actively improve lives of employees and their families and communities throughout the world. In Secanquin, Guatemala, we saw a tremendous opportunity to commit our time and resources to help improve the lives of those whose circumstances are very difficult. Helping others and building a foundation for the future is an essential part of who we are at Academy."

"Our recent trip to the Cloud Forest Mountains of Alta Verapaz Guatemala was an experience unlike any I have ever had. It was hot and cold and wet and one of the most memorable and transformative experiences I've had traveling. The people were so happy and helpful. It's a life changer."

"I found the people of Secanquin fascinating. The villagers seemed happy, but not content to stay in the same place as far as improving their lives. They have a desire to better their water, food, medical, and education while remaining respectful to their beautiful mountains and environment. It's like they skipped the last couple of generations that western civilization has experienced."

"My experience in Guatemala has made me consider how good we have it here. It has made me more grateful. I was amazed at how happy the villagers were, despite their circumstances. They were always smiling and willing to help. I think they will change our lives as much or even more than we will change theirs."

"The villagers were very humble, kind, and caring. They are all hard workers who want to build a good life for their families. I'll always remember how we painted the fingernails of every woman in the village and even some of the boys. They kept wiping off the nail polish and coming back for more. I learned that we are blessed with so much and should be forever grateful for all we have."

"I have traveled all over the world, but this was the most outstanding and incredible trip I have ever made. The people in this village were as humble, happy, and as giving as any I have ever come in contact with. The villagers don't have anything and must work hard for their day-to-day existence. The Service Expedition is about letting this community know that the outside world has not forgotten about them."

"This was certainly an experience like I've never had before. But people are still people, no matter where you go. The thing that struck me the most was the villagers' level of contentment, no matter where they lived or what they had. Their happiness was remarkable. Yet they also had a sense of ambition, of wanting to improve their circumstances."