Hearts In Motion partners with our volunteers on short term mission trips to Guatemala and at home by implementing programs and utilizing funding and sponsorships to make a difference for those living in poverty in the U.S., Central and South America. We strive to impact communities as well as provide an enriching experience for our volunteers. In Guatemala, HIM works to complement resources already in place with our dedicated volunteers while respecting the Guatemalan culture. HIM has been working in Guatemala since 1990 and is highly respected due to the outstanding relationships and work we have done in the local community. HIM has developed a cooperative relationship with local Government leaders that serve to help identify needs and priorities and we work to consistently provide dependable care and service for those areas selected. Our Guatemalan staff uses their expertise to help implement HIM programs and insure long term sustainability. HIM implements proven programs that give hope and a future to those in poverty. For example, medical research indicates that many of the physical abnormalities seen in children who are brought to surgery (cleft palate, club foot, etc) are a result of poor nutrition or inadequate pre-natal care. Programs addressing nutrition and pre-natal care have been at the forefront of our work to help prevent many of these abnormalities. We have also been successful with our child sponsorship program providing education for children to increase literacy and prepare children to compete in the labor market. HIM will continue to invest heavily in programs that improve quality of life in these regions.