Long Way Home is currently undertaking it's largest project yet, the expansion of one of San Juan Comalapa's primary schools. Construction of the school will utilize alternative building methods such as pounded earthbags, reclaimed tires and dirt and trash filled plastic bottles. When completed, the new Técnico Maya school will be equipped to provide primary, básico and vocational training from auto mechanics to bicycle repair. Click here to check out the school or click here for more information about other rammed earth and tire building projects that LWH has undertaken.

    Through years of working with the people of San Juan Comalapa, Long Way Home has come to understand that community development must encompass more than simply placing projects into a community. It must be envisioned and created by the people who live and work in that community. Long Way Home's mission is to collaborate with community members, drawing together knowledge, experience, and creativity into the design and implementation of development projects. For example, by utilizing alternative building methods and community collaboration, Long Way Home has completed Parque Chimiyá, a sustainable community park. In addition to the new soccer field, basketball court, and community kitchen, alternative building methods promote the collection and reuse of local garbage which help to combat environmental and health issues caused by trash burning. A healthy environment, Long Way Home believes, is integral in sustaining a healthy and empowered community.

Parque Chimiyá is the home of Long Way Home staff and volunteers. Nearing completion, it is used and enjoyed daily by many local kids and adults. Check out the project here