Dental care comes to rural Guatemala.
Bre Zientarski
Imagine living with a painful rash and having no idea how to treat it. Or managing diabetes without medication. Or enduring a toothache for years, with no dentist in sight. For many in rural Guatemala, these aren’t rare emergencies—they’re everyday struggles.
This past month, our team had the privilege of serving more than 500 patients in a small village near Champerico, Guatemala. In partnership with CHE Global and a passionate team from Costa Rica, we provided much-needed, essential medical and dental care to a community with limited access to healthcare.
With no local clinics or providers, minor issues often spiral into major problems. We treated infections, high blood pressure, and unmanaged diabetes. Dentists extracted decayed teeth that had caused years of pain. Simple resources—such as antibiotics, blood sugar testing, and extractions—offered real relief and hope.
But healing went beyond medicine.
Three women on our team spent the week teaching sewing skills to 12 local women—some picking up a needle for the first time, others refining their craft. With these skills, they’re now empowered to provide for their families and build micro-businesses that strengthen their community.
We also fitted reading glasses for those whose eyesight had faded with age. Many had been unable to read, sew, or carry out daily tasks. One elderly woman, once a skilled seamstress, wept as she threaded a needle for the first time in years. That simple moment restored her joy, dignity, and purpose.
And perhaps the most heartwarming part of the trip was connecting with more than 300 children through games, storytelling, art, and laughter. Each smile, each shared moment, reminded us of the resilience and beauty in their hearts. What started as play became something much deeper: a reminder that love, presence, and joy can plant powerful seeds of hope.
We were so grateful to serve alongside the CHE Global, whose model emphasizes sustainability—equipping local leaders with the training and tools to carry the work forward.
A heartfelt thank–you to the Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke, whose generous support made this mission possible through funding for supplies, medications, and local scholarships.
This experience was a powerful reminder of the privileges we often overlook—like access to healthcare and opportunity—and how even the smallest acts of compassion can ignite lasting change. Our work isn’t finished, and we’re honored to return!
What is Rotary? Rotary is the world’s largest volunteer organization and is found in more countries than the Red Cross, Starbucks, or McDonald’s. Together with our friends, we are working to make a difference and change lives.
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke is an award-winning club. We gather on Thursdays at 11 a.m. for lunch at the Ranch House at SaddleBrooke Ranch. Next, we meet in the ballroom, followed by an educational program or speaker. Rotary is open to those who live and work in SaddleBrooke Ranch, SaddleBrooke, and the surrounding communities. For more information, check out saddlebrookerotary.com or contact Diane Demeroutis at rotarysbaz@gmail.com.