Pura Vida -- Pure Life! Colorado and Georgia teams build homes in Guatemala
- EPUMC Office
- 2 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Newnan Team
Newnan Presbyterian Church in Newnan, Georgia sent their very first Pura Vida work team to Guatemala in June. Their team worked on a home for Juana & Oscar and their two young children. No strangers to hard work, the NPC team built half a house in spite of heavy rainfall.
Tragic loss of Mario, Pura Vida interpreter
We are saddened to report the passing of Mario de Leon, a Pura Vida interpreter beloved by many of our Guatemala work team members. Shortly after finishing work with our Salida / Newnan team in June, Mario went into the hospital with vision problems. On June 30, 2025 he ended up having a 5-centimeter brain tumor removed. Unfortunately, he never recovered. Funeral services were held last week. With the help of concerned donors, we have already sent a substantial donation to Mario’s family to help offset verified costs. The family is very appreciative. Nevertheless, we will greatly miss Mario. To see photos of Mario over the years and to leave a message for Mario's family, please see our latest blog entry, In Memory of Mario de Leon. |
Danilo and Mari - Pura Vida graduates
We are happy to share the news of the recent marriage of our Construction Supervisor, Danilo Lopez, to Mari Gonzalez, also a Pura Vida employee. Both Danilo and Mari are former graduates of our Scholarship Program. Danilo began working for Pura Vida in 2014, first as a photographer documenting our projects and work trips and now overseeing all our projects in Guatemala. Mari helps with our students' visits, annual Milk Distribution, and has helped tutor our students when needed. Congratulations, Danil and Mari! We're wishing you a life together filled with joy and abundant blessings!
Student scholarships are making dreams a reality
Pura Vida features short videos of students in our scholarship program in our Dreams Come True campaign. This month, please meet Jessica.
She shares in her own words how her dreams of graduating and becoming a professional are being fulfilled through educational opportunities provided by Pura Vida scholarship sponsors and the support of her faith and family.
Hear and see how Jessica is making her Dreams Come True...
Male education more accessible in Guatemala
Students in Guatemala – like our Dreams Come True featured students – need your help through scholarships for their education. Sponsorship is an enriching experience for you, the student and their family.
Scholarships are Pura Vida's main focus in creating brighter futures for the children in Guatemala. For as little as $48 a month, your scholarship and encouragement can make a huge impact on a child's future. Many new scholarship students are the first in their families to attend school beyond third grade. You are making a difference with your support. Thank you.
Save the Date for 2026 English Camp
It's not too early to start planning to join Pura Vida's team for next year's English Camp in Guatemala.
Save the Date!
2026 Guatemala English Camp
June 12 - 21, 2026
