EDUCATION CENTRE
EMPOWERING CHILDREN IN POVERTY THROUGH EDUCATION, MENTORING, AND LIFE-SKILLS TRAINING.
MY SPECIAL TREASURE EDUCATION CENTRE
Bringing Hope and Education to Children Living in Harsh Conditions
In the heart of Chimaltenango, Guatemala, the My Special Treasure Education Centre is a lifeline for children and families working on the local rubbish dump. Amid toxic waste, sharp objects, and disease, many spend up to 14 hours a day collecting recyclables to survive. Children face daily risks to their health, with limited access to food, education, and safety.
From a Tin Shack to Transforming Hundreds of Lives
Founded in 2011, the Education Centre began as a humble, dark room in a tin shack on the Chimaltenango rubbish dump with just 12 children. Today, it serves over 350 children annually, providing quality primary and secondary education, including support for children with special needs.
The Centre partners with local and international organisations to offer daily meals, medical care, and emergency food aid—meeting both educational and physical needs of students and their families.
Education for the Whole Family
Their impact goes beyond the classroom. Through adult distance learning programs, parents and young adults can study technical and entrepreneurial courses while continuing to support their families—breaking their cycle of poverty one step at a time.
TESTIMONY
"The Education Centre has been my lifeline for four years. As a mother of two, balancing school and our small market business is tough, often leaving us without income. In desperate times, I’ve trusted God, and the Centre’s support; education, financial aid, and mentoring have been invaluable."
LILY
ROOTED IN FAITH, OPEN TO ALL
As a Christian faith-based school, each day starts with worship songs and devotionals, nurturing spiritual growth alongside academics. The Centre works closely with Iglesia Sendero de Amor (Path of Love Church), which offers Bible teaching, parenting workshops, and life-skills training. While rooted in Christian values, the school welcomes children of all faiths and backgrounds, providing help based on need—not religion.
MENTORING THE NEXT GENERATION
In partnership with Nicodemus, the school equips students for life beyond graduation. Final-year students take the “Skills for Youth in Transition” course, learning about budgeting, emotional health, employment, and independence. On graduating from school at the Education Centre, final year students are invited to join our Youth Mentoring Program for 18-25 year-olds. Teachers also receive youth mentoring training to better support and guide students.
Since 2011, Nicodemus has helped graduates access further education, apprenticeships, and employment. In the past three years, 16 out of 40 graduates have joined the mentoring program, receiving personalised support to build a brighter future.
TESTIMONY
"My dream is to graduate, secure a formal job with a fixed salary, ensuring my daughters can continue their education and build a promising future. I’m immensely grateful to the teachers and staff at the Education Centre for helping me navigate this journey.”
MILNER
MOTHER OF DAUGHTERS ALSO ATTENDING THE EDUCATION CENTRE
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
In 2018, the Centre bought land for a permanent school building—now 60% complete as funds allow. Ongoing costs are supported by a network of seven churches, NGOs, and individual donors. Local businesses donate materials, and churches provide food packages for families.
The school also promotes community involvement, hosting events, parenting workshops, and volunteer opportunities to build trust and shared responsibility among families.
A SUSTAINABLE CYCLE OF SUPPORT
Graduates are encouraged to return as mentors and volunteers, creating a culture of giving back. All youth mentoring and life-skills programs are offered free of charge to students and teachers—investing in the next generation of changemakers.