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Guatemalans are desperate for real hope and real change.
Poverty/income inequality and social exclusion are some of the main challenges that are prevalent in Guatemala. The denial of the rural poor from opportunities of personal growth and development reflects their disadvantaged economic circumstances.
We believe that students, whose education is built on the teachings of Jesus Christ, will grow into a loving force for the greater good of mankind and be the catalyst for change in the future.
We also believe in leading by example and invite our teachers and students to learn with us as we all aim to model the love of Christ with everyone we interact with.
PILAS is fighting to level the playing field, seek fairness, and defend the oppressed by providing Christ-centered education and character/leadership development programs to impoverished indigenous people of Guatemala.
Through CLUB CONEXIÓN, and partnering with public schools in Sumpango’s surrounding villages, PILAS identifies students who have budding leadership characteristics, a strong desire to further their education and be change agents in their communities.
Our goal is to build up a generation of community leaders and world shakers!
Our programs are producing fruit and we’d love for you to join in with what God is doing in Sumpango!
Preparation includes daily one-hour Bible studies to prepare them to understand and defend their faith, as well as put into practice what they learn.
Serving others is part of the philosophy of PILAS and a great way for them to uncover the unique purpose God has for their lives.
Core leadership characteristics are also learned, developed and practiced throughout the three-year program, with a goal of having a greater impact and influence in their communities.
Current research says that a child’s success depends on whether we can help them develop a set of qualities that include persistence, self-control, curiosity, conscientiousness, grit and self-confidence.
Through the development of these characteristics, there is a greater probability for narrowing the achievement gap between disadvantaged kids and middle-class kids.
Many visitors have compared the PILAS LEADERSHIP PROGRAM to Jesus’ model for discipleship. The program grants us the opportunity to disciple approximately twelve scholarship students over a three-year period, building relationships that feature love, commitment, authenticity, vulnerability, accountability, and intentionality. We believe in the philosophy of going deeper with fewer youth than going wider with more kids and sacrificing the intimacy.
We teach the students that we are saved by faith, not works, and we are to live out our faith by loving others and caring for their needs. By providing opportunities students learn how to flex their service muscles.
In 2015, after only two years in existence, PILAS was recognized by the Guatemalan government for its passion and efforts in education and leadership development of adolescents and youth from the villages of the municipality of Sumpango Sacatepéquez Guatemala.
This website is neither sponsored nor promoted by Heart Lake Baptist Church (HLBC), PILAS’ supporting churches or ministry partners (PMP), or Commission to Every Nation/Canada (CTEN / CTENC). The content herein does not reflect either of these organization’s views, opinions or philosophy, but rather that of the author. HLBC, PMP and CTEN / CTENC can therefore not be considered liable and will not take any responsibility for its content.
