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Established in 1964 and partners with The YMCAs of Québec since 2008.
In partnership with the Guy-Favreau and West Island Y centres.

The ACJ Guatemala was established in 1964. Following the devastating earthquake of 1976 which took over 22,000 lives, the ACJ focused its work on social justice, youth development and community building. 2007 was another turning point for the ACJ, as reforms were initiated in: consolidation of the movement and its focus on human rights, institutional strengthening and political engagement.

The ACJ is located in Guatemala City, Tierra Nueva, Sakerty, Amatitlán and in the mountainous San Cristóbal Verapaz township, where its vacation camp, Chichoj, is located. The ACJ trains and involves youth as volunteer leaders. Community-based programs and activities are planned, organized and run by young volunteers 17-22 years of age. Many of these youth volunteer leaders grew up in the ACJ.

"Our mission is to foster, through recreational and informal education activities, a volunteer movement for the development of youth leaders who will positively influence the social and political dynamics of their country." ACJ/YMCA of Guatemala

Objectives:

To develop a movement of youth who participate in the building of a nation based on social justice, equality and human rights. To offer programs and services that improves the quality of life for individuals and communities, as well as to contribute to the positive development of local communities and the Guatemalan society at large.

Programs:

  • Education: youth leadership development, peace building and citizenship, technical skills training, and popular education techniques.
  • Recreation: delivering sports, arts and cultural programs and activities led by volunteers that support the healthy development of children, youth and adults.
  • Volunteerism: training and opportunities for volunteers in order to encourage their active involvement in their communities and on a national level.
  • Community Development: reconstructing community participation and involvement, and skills-building training for parents.

*ACJ: Asociacion Cristiana de Jovenes