Friendship Bridge is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit social enterprise creating opportunities that empower women in Guatemala to build a better life. We work primarily with indigenous women in rural Guatemala where the rate of poverty is the highest. While illiteracy and poverty rates are staggering in these regions, the women we work with are determined to create a change.

Why Women and Why Guatemala?

Studies have shown that when women are successful, they invest beyond themselves, in their children, and in their communities. Investing in women is smart from both an economic and a social perspective.

• Women invest 90% of their income back into their families and communities. Source: Clinton Global Initiative
• Gender Inequality: Guatemala ranks 113th out of 153 countries in gender equality, making it the most gender unequal country in Latin America. Source: Global Gender Gap Index
• Poverty: 59% of the total population of Guatemala lives in poverty. The situation is more extreme for indigenous people (39% of the population), with a poverty rate exceeding 79%. Source: 2020 CIA World Factbook
• Malnutrition: Nearly one-half of Guatemala’s children under age five are chronically malnourished, one of the highest malnutrition rates in the world. Source: 2020 CIA World Factbook
• Corruption: Guatemala’s government is classified as ‘corrupt’ by Transparency International and its budget for public infrastructure is extremely constrained. Many Guatemalans lack confidence in the government to improve the economic conditions of the general population and some experience a dire lack of access to clean water, utilities, and public transportation. Source: US Department of State 2020 Investment Climate Statements

 

Friendship Bridge is a 501(c)(3) organization with a tax ID number 84-1141078.