Manson Interact Club shares Guatemala service trip experience

MANSON -– Members of the Manson High School Interact Club recently shared highlights from their service trip to Guatemala during a presentation at the school, reflecting on the relationships they formed and the work they accomplished.

In March, twelve club members traveled to Jalapa, Guatemala to help at the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios Girls School, which serves girls facing significant challenges. 

"During a transformative trip to Guatemala, we visited a local school, Nuestra Señora de los Remedios in Jalapa, Guatemala to connect with girls from challenging backgrounds, fostering meaningful relationships and offering encouragement,” club Vice President Genesis Torres said. “Many of these girls had endured hardships, yet their resilience and spirit were truly inspiring.” 

Manson student Nefertitis Zarate said the personal connections stood out most.

"My favorite part of the trip to Guatemala, Jalapa, wasn't the typical tourist attractions or the exotic food, it was the incredible connection I made with a group of girls from diverse backgrounds,” Zarate said. “Their kindness and energy were infectious.” 

“Each morning, they would braid each other's hair and offer to braid ours, starting the day with so much joy and warmth,” Zarate said. “Their genuine friendship and the activities we shared allowed us to truly connect, creating unforgettable moments. It was the time spent with these wonderful talented girls that brought so much happiness and made the trip truly special."

In addition to forming relationships, club members spent the week helping to remodel two libraries for the school’s 130 students.

“In addition to building connections, our team worked on remodeling two libraries, creating safe and welcoming spaces that promote literacy and learning,” Torres said. “Through education and community engagement, we aimed to provide the students with resources that empower them to envision new possibilities for their futures. It was definitely a life-changing experience for us all.”

"We built two libraries for the school, one for girls ages 0-6 and one for girls ages 7-18,” club member Isabella Aburto said. “The libraries create a safe space for the girls to study, excel in literacy, and create more connections."

The Manson Interact Club, established in 2023 as the youth branch of Rotary, follows Rotary’s mission of "service above self." With 22 active members, the club completes at least two local service projects annually and is developing an annual international initiative. 

“Our team loves bringing the community together with the Manson High School and can’t wait to plan more impactful events," Interact Club President Camille Hutton said.

Quinn Propst: 206-923-8706 or quinn@ward.media.