Get to Know our Guatemalan Staff

Meet Candelaria, Receptionist. Candelaria is the first face our clinic patients see in the  morning, and the one to whom they ask the  most questions. Nearly 11 years ago, an announcement was made at Candelaria’s church – Project Salud y Paz was looking for  someone to fill in as receptionist while the  current receptionist traveled to the United  States. Candelaria volunteered to take on the role. Little did she know, the old receptionist wouldn’t return. Dr. Phil asked Candelaria to stay and continue working with the project.  After several years volunteering with the project, she earned a spot on the paid staff. She’s been our receptionist ever since.

Candelaria has a 6th-grade education. When she started working with the project, she had never used a computer. Over the last decade, she has expanded her education through her work, improving her communication and computer skills.

Candelaria lives with her children and her mom in Chicuaj. In addition to her work with Salud y Paz, she is the head of her household, in charge of cooking, cleaning, and everyday tasks. She also weaves and embroiders textiles to sell in the market.

Candelaria loves her job with Salud y Paz. She says, “I’ve always worked and I love working here because there’s a lot of work to do. I like working with people and I’m very happy doing that.”

Salud y Paz budgets about $125,000 per year to pay staff salaries. Part of our mission is to empower our Guatemalan staff to serve their own people. Support this important mission. Give today.