So far this year, an incredible 50 of 245 students (20%) enrolled in the Cadaniño afterschool programs in Guatemala have made the honor roll in their classes at school, with 27 in first place and 23 in second place. A testament to the profound impact our work has on their academic growth and personal development.
Many of them live in extreme poverty, had struggled in school and failed classes, but thanks to targeted programs that provide quality support from our dedicated team of teachers, students are now transforming into top performers, excelling in areas that were once challenging for them.
Individualized attention in math, reading, and computer skills has been crucial in helping them build a solid academic foundation. For many, math was once a subject they struggled with, but thanks to interactive and engaging lessons and the leveraging of learning platforms like Khan Academy, they now excel in it.
Similarly, we can see that the +1,500 books our students have read in our reading program so far this year is directly impacting their comprehension and writing skills and making them more confident and capable in their academic work.
Beyond academics, the spiritual guidance and personal development we provide at Cadaniño has also played a significant role. Students are taught essential life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and self-control, helping them make better decisions in and out of the classroom. Our in-depth Bible studies focusing on discipleship and what it truly means to be a follower of Christ have strengthened their faith and taught them values that translate into a more focused and positive attitude toward learning and personal growth.
This remarkable achievement of having 50 students placed first in their class reflects the dedication of the students and the teachers. It shows that with the proper guidance, resources, and support, every child has the potential to improve and even excel, no matter their starting point or the challenges of the life into which they were born.
Hear Directly From Our Students
Victor
"My name is Victor. I am 12 years old and in 6th grade. Before attending Cadaniño, I didn't know how to use a computer, and I struggled with math and Bible knowledge. I only had a little understanding of everything, but now, thanks to Cadaniño, I have learned so much.
The learning I received has allowed me to become the top student in my class, and I am now the class leader in almost everything. The Cadaniño classes have helped me improve academically, particularly in computer skills and math, which I didn't know much about before. Through Bible studies, I have also learned a lot about God, and this has been a tremendous help to me.
Not only have my academic skills improved, but my behavior has also changed for the better. Thanks to the guidance and support from the teachers at Cadaniño, I have learned to make better decisions and choose the right path in life. Now that I know more about God, I have a strong desire to become a pastor when I grow up. I dream of preaching the Gospel to everyone in the world so they can know that there is only one true God.
Learning about God's Word has helped me emotionally, especially with my family struggles. It gives me strength and motivation every day. My family and I are Christians and deeply trust and love God. Cadaniño has played a big role in helping me make good decisions in my family life and school.
One day, a classmate asked me for help with math, and I was able to assist him. This made me realize how much I have grown in my knowledge and skills, and how being at Cadaniño has helped me become not only a better student but also a better person.
I am so grateful for everything I have learned at Cadaniño. I look forward to continuing this journey and making the most of the opportunities I have been given."
Astrid
"My name is Astrid. I am 16 years old and in 11th grade. Before joining the Cadaniño program, I knew nothing about computers—I didn't know how to type on a keyboard or even turn a computer on. Math was also hard, and I struggled with logic and reading.
Thanks to Cadaniño, I've made significant improvements in all these areas. I am a competent computer user and have even learned several programming languages. Cadaniño has helped me grow not only in my technical skills but also in my spiritual life. I've learned to trust God more and keep Him at the center of everything I do. In math, I've developed better logical thinking and learned new topics, and in computing, I've gained proficiency in various programming languages.
Today, I am an outstanding student in first place in my classes at Cadaniño and in my school. My behavior has improved as well. I've learned the importance of knowing right and wrong, respecting others, forgiving people, and not holding onto resentment. I've also gained more values that help to guide me in life.
In the future, I see myself studying Software Engineering at the university, working, helping my family, and excelling as one of the top students. I'm happy that I have better control over my emotions now. In the spiritual area, I've learned that God is always with me, no matter the challenges I face. Knowing God has made me a happier and more confident person, and I seek His wisdom in every decision I make.
I love to draw and read. At Cadaniño, I particularly enjoy learning robotics through the LEGO Spike curriculum, where I get to think creatively and develop new ideas, just like in programming.
Cadaniño has significantly impacted my life, especially in my studies. I've learned additional skills that help me at school, and my faith in God has grown stronger. I've even had the opportunity to help my classmates by explaining programming and math in a way that's easier for them to understand. I've also encouraged them spiritually, reminding them not to give up and to stay close to God."
Chelsy
"My name is Chelsy. I am 17 years old and in 9th grade. Before I joined the Cadaniño program, I knew nothing about computers and struggled a lot in school. My homework was difficult, and I didn't know how to improve. However, thanks to the classes at Cadaniño, I made significant progress.
With their support, I became my school's "Abanderado," or flag bearer. Their help allowed me to excel in my classes and subjects. The program has helped me not only academically but also spiritually. It has taught me to be a better person, instilling values that I know will guide me throughout my life.
Thanks to the support I've received, I've been able to advance and improve in everything I do, proving to myself and others what I'm capable of. Cadaniño has taught me to be more collaborative and courageous and to uphold good values. I've also learned to be a good leader, which has allowed me to inspire others.
In the future, I see myself graduating and working toward my dreams and goals. I imagine doing my work with love and dedication, giving others the smiles that were given to me. Cadaniño's classes have helped me a lot; they make me feel happy and at peace because I interact with many people who have taught me valuable lessons. Above all, I've learned not to give up easily and to always keep smiling.
What I love most about Cadaniño is spending time with everyone, playing with them, and being part of this great family that teaches me something good every day. My family and I have started attending church, and it's been a beautiful experience. We've learned so much, and there's still much more to learn.
Cadaniño has also helped my family tremendously. Whenever we needed a helping hand, they've always been there for us, never turning their backs on us. Their love and support have been so great that my mom has even given her life to God.
I've shared advice and faith with people I know need it. Even though I'm new to the church and still learning, I'm always willing to help anyone who needs it, just as I've been helped along the way.”
Josselin
"Hello, my name is Josselin, I am 12 years old and currently in the 6th grade, attending the Republica de Panama School. Before joining the Cadaniño afterschool program, I didn’t know anything about computers, and I struggled with math. However, thanks to my studies at Cadaniño, I have achieved first place in my class and have even been honored as the flag bearer.
Cadaniño has helped me improve not only in school and excel in my studies but also in understanding more about the Bible. I’ve learned so much during my time here and deepened my knowledge of God’s Word.
Before I joined Cadaniño, I was often disobedient at home. But thanks to the teachers, I have learned to be more obedient and respectful to my family. My favorite class is math because every day I learn something new, even things that haven't been taught at school yet. I’ve come to love the subject, become so much better at it and it has inspired me to dream about working in a bank as a receptionist one day.
The Bible classes have also had a big impact on me. I have learned that whenever I face problems, I can turn to God through prayer and express my thoughts and feelings to Him. This has given me great comfort.
What I love most about the Cadaniño program is the math class because it helps me grow each day. I’m always learning new things that help me perform better in school. My family and I are Christians, and we attend church regularly. The program has also supported my family in spiritual ways and many people pray for us during Bible class.
Finally, Cadaniño has taught me how to share with others, and because of this, I have become a better person. I am very grateful for everything I’ve learned here and for how much it has helped me grow in my studies, my behavior, and my faith."
Luis Miguel
"My name is Luis Miguel. I am 18 years old and in 11th grade. Before joining the Cadaniño afterschool program, I struggled with using computers and math.
Thanks to the learning I’ve received at Cadaniño, I made the honor roll and became the second-place flag bearer at my school. The program has helped me a lot, teaching me about God. I learned how to use computers and have received a lot of support in subjects like math and physics. I’ve made significant progress in my studies because of it.
Before, I was a young man who didn’t behave well and didn’t know God. Now, I am grateful to the teacher who gave me advice and helped guide me. I truly appreciate the support I’ve received at Cadaniño in learning how to use technology. Now, I want to become a computer science teacher in the future.
Cadaniño also helped me get to know God, and I’ve learned much about His Word through the Bible. Now, I feel very happy and joyful because of this. My favorite subjects are computers and math because I enjoy programming and solving math problems.
Every Sunday, my family and I gather to attend Church. We have learned to trust God because He has greatly helped us. Through Cadaniño, we’ve understood the Bible better, which has helped improve our family life.
I’ve also had the opportunity to help other children learn how to use computers. I am thankful for the knowledge I’ve gained. I feel proud to be able to share what I’ve learned with others and to continue growing both academically and spiritually.
Cadaniño has made a big difference in my life, and I am excited about the future as I pursue my dream of becoming a computer science teacher in the future.”
Nataly
"My name is Nataly. I am 12 years old and am in 6th grade. Before joining the Cadaniño afterschool program, I didn't know many things. I didn't enjoy reading, couldn't use a computer, and I didn't like participating in school activities. Math was also very difficult for me.
Today, thanks to Cadaniño, I have improved a lot. My school honored me by making me the flag bearer or "Abanderado" because of the hard work I put in to be in the first place. The program has helped me in so many ways, and I have learned much more than I ever knew before. I've learned how to use technology, gained a much better understanding of math, and, in Bible class, I learned about Jesus, which has been very important to me.
Because of the math lessons at Cadaniño, I passed my school tests, and my grades have improved significantly. The program has also helped me boost my self-esteem and make friends. My behavior has improved, and I've even started helping with cleaning tasks at home. One of the biggest changes I've experienced is that I've learned to help those in need.
In the future, I see myself as a successful and very skilled professional lawyer.
What I enjoy the most about the program are the math classes and the games we play to learn. Although my family is Catholic and we don't go to church often, we still worship God.
My family is very proud of me for what I've achieved at Cadaniño, for being the flag bearer, and for all my hard work and dedication. I've learned to share and grow in many areas, and I'm grateful for the experiences and lessons I've gained through this program."
Jania
"My name is Jania. I am 17 years old and in the 12th grade. Before joining Cadaniño, I knew nothing about computers—not even how to turn one on. I also struggled a lot with math.
Thanks to the classes I take, I have improved significantly in computing, programming lab, and math. It has helped me a lot, and I've developed a strong interest in computing and mathematics. I also enjoy reading books, and I've learned more about God, strengthening my relationship with Him.
I am now one of the top students in my grade, with good grades and much new knowledge. I have become calmer, more respectful, more responsible, and more kind. When I look to the future, I can see myself as successful, helping my family, getting the job of my dreams, and always serving God.
I have come to appreciate myself more and take my emotions into account. I've learned to think before I act, which has made me more thoughtful and mature. I love serving God and attending church, and I also enjoy reading, playing soccer, and especially learning math at Cadaniño.
I am a Christian, and my family and I regularly attend church. Cadaniño has had a very positive impact on my education, the development of my skills, and my ability to serve others, taking what I'm taught and helping my classmates when they struggle; it has become something I really enjoy.
I am incredibly grateful for all that I've learned at Cadaniño, I know it will help me as I move forward in my journey, and I always hope to keep God at the center of my life."
Shekyna
"My name is Rebeca Shekyna. I am 13 years old and am currently in sixth grade. Before joining the Cadaniño program, I struggled in school, and it was difficult for me.
When I joined Cadaniño, I learned a lot about technology and also deepened my understanding of God through the life class. Cadaniño has helped me improve in my spiritual life and strengthen my relationship with God. I’ve also made significant progress in my computer skills and advanced a lot in my learning.
Today, I am an outstanding student and I was in first place, not only at my school but also at Cadaniño. My behavior has improved because I now know what is right and wrong, and I make better decisions. In the future, I see myself becoming an excellent doctor and achieving my dreams one day at a time.
I’ve also learned how to manage my emotions better, and I consider myself to be different from others in a positive way. I’m proud of how much I’ve grown and improved. I enjoy reading, listening to music, painting, and drawing. I love spending time with my friends and family, and I especially enjoy the computer classes at Cadaniño.
My family and I are Christians, and we go to church together. The Cadaniño program has had a significant impact on my life and my family’s life as well. I’ve improved my academic performance and grown closer to God, and Cadaniño has provided great support to my family.
I’ve also had the opportunity to help my friends and family with academic and spiritual problems. It’s a blessing to be able to support others, just as Cadaniño has supported me."
Dereck
My name is Dereck. I am 9 years old and currently in second grade at public school. Before joining the Cadaniño afterschool program, I didn’t know how to use a computer, and I struggled with reading and math.
Teachers at Cadaniño have helped me to excel in my classes and become the "Abanderado" (Flag Carrier), earning a spot on the honor roll. The classes have been a tremendous help in all areas, especially math, where I can now solve basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. In reading, I’ve improved my comprehension and reduced spelling mistakes. In computer classes, I’ve learned how to type. Spiritually, the Bible stories I’ve learned have inspired me. My family regularly attends Church, and through Cadaniño, I’ve developed a greater interest in reading, which has made me enjoy books even more.
Although I’m still young, I know that as I continue to grow and learn, I’ll be able to share my knowledge and help others in need. Being here has helped me grow socially, teaching me how to interact and connect with other people around me.
In the future, I dream of becoming a professional chef. My family is happy that I attend the program. Every day, I learn something new, and I feel very happy to be able to come here. I particularly enjoy math classes because I learn through games, which makes it fun and engaging.
I am truly grateful for everything I’ve learned at Cadaniño, and I’m excited to keep growing and learning more each day."
Edwin
"Hello, my name is Edwin, and I am 10 years old and in 5th grade. Before I started attending the Cadaniño afterschool program, I didn’t know how to use a computer and found it very difficult.
Thanks to the opportunity I have been given and the work I have done to study, I am doing better in school and would even sometimes get the top grades in my class. Being “Abanderado” (First Place in Class) is very difficult, but with my hard work, I achieved it. Cadaniño has helped me a lot, especially in Bible studies, computer classes, and math. Being here has greatly improved my learning.
Before joining Cadaniño, I didn’t know how to tell the difference between right and wrong, but now I do. In the future, I see myself becoming either a programmer or an architect. I feel relief, happiness, and peace when I read the Bible.
The thing I like the most at Cadaniño is math. My family and I are Christians, and we believe in God. I can see how faith in God has changed me a lot, and I am grateful for that.
I’ve also learned to share with others. For example, sometimes, I share my food with other children who are hungry or help classmates with homework using the lessons I learned at Cadaniño. These experiences have made me a better person, and I am thankful for all that I’ve learned here."
None of this would be possible without the generous support of those who believe in the mission of Cadaniño. We offer our deepest gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and partners. Your contributions have empowered these students to succeed academically and grow spiritually, becoming well-rounded individuals equipped for bright futures. Your impact extends beyond the classroom—your support is changing lives for eternity. Because of you, these children have the opportunity to excel, dream, and thrive, and for that, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Together, we are helping to shape a generation of young leaders who will carry these lessons with them for the rest of their lives.
Sincerely, Timothy Martiny, President, Cadaniño
Partner with Cadaniño today and impact lives for eternity!
