Submitted by Rick Lawrence, District 7890 Chair – Water, Sanitation & Hygiene Projects

On March 12th we returned from our annual trip to Guatemala, where we participated in the most welcoming and elaborate ceremony we had ever experienced for the 30 completed Mayan villages over the past 20 years. It seemed like the entire village of Panicuy – 46 families and 322 people – participated in greeting us, thanking us and explaining how these Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) systems have improved their health and lives immeasurably.

A Special Gift from S&S Worldwide

Amidst the celebrations, we had the joy of presenting the playground balls donated by S&S Worldwide. The excitement on the children’s faces was unforgettable. One of the teachers, who spoke fluent English, shared how much the school supplies, soccer balls, and playground balls would mean to the students. She said these were gifts that will be used and cherished by all who attend our school.

The simple joy of a playground ball is universal, and it was clear that these gifts will bring countless moments of happiness to the children of Panicuy. The images from that day capture the pure delight on their faces, and we’re so grateful to S&S Worldwide for their generosity.

Continuing the Mission

We also had the opportunity to visit the next village of Xecoxol, which will soon benefit from the next Rotary Global Grant. We witnessed the terrible existing conditions that will be improved once the grant is fully funded.

Xecoxol has three schools, and we visited the one for higher grades (3-5) and spoke to the principal. When she heard and saw photos of the gifts we had contributed to Panicuy, she mentioned the desire to have water color painting supplies and chess sets for the older children.

Thanks to S&S Worldwide’s ongoing support, we will be using the gift certificate they provided to purchase these items in preparation for our return next March, when we celebrate the completion of the project.

Thank you very much for your donations and continued support.

Returning to Xecoxol – A Meaningful Next Chapter

This year, that return to Xecoxol became a reality.

In March 2026, we return to Xecoxol, the 31st Indigenous Mayan village where Rotary Clubs, Rotarians, and friends helped fund a life-changing project. Through contributions totaling $176,486, materials were provided to construct a potable water system, sanitation facilities, and hygiene education resources for the village. As a result, 115 families (725 people) will have their health and lives improved immeasurably.

Over the past 19 years, these efforts have now brought critical water, sanitation, and hygiene improvements to more than 22,000 people.

Supplies Requested, Delivered, and Appreciated

During last year’s visit to Xecoxol, we spoke with a middle school teacher and shared their tradition of bringing school and recreation supplies to the villages they visit. At that time, the teacher specifically requested chess sets and watercolor paint supplies for her students.

Thanks to the gift certificate provided by S&S Worldwide, those requested items were purchased and brought back during this year’s visit.

The photos from Xecoxol show the teacher holding a chess set and watercolor supplies, along with children proudly holding donated playground balls and other school materials. These donations help support not only learning and creativity, but also play, connection, and joy in the classroom.

More Than Materials

What makes this story especially meaningful is the way it connects two important needs: essential infrastructure and everyday childhood experiences.

Access to clean water and sanitation can transform a community’s health and future. At the same time, supplies for art, games, and active play help children learn, create, and simply enjoy being kids. We’re honored that S&S Worldwide could play a small part in supporting the students of Xecoxol in this way.

We are grateful for all involved in this ongoing mission for the incredible work we continue to do in Guatemala.

Once again, thank you for allowing S&S Worldwide to be part of such a meaningful effort.