Dear Friend,

I hope this email finds you well. I am delighted to share some significant updates about the Luminarias University Program, which places most of the girls who have completed our program at the University of San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC). It is the largest and oldest university in Guatemala and holds distinction as the only public university in the entire country.

Since its inception in 2021, our university program has made substantial strides in supporting young women who previously faced economic and technological barriers to continuing their education. These girls, who have been with us since they were 12 or 13 years old, are now thriving in their university studies thanks to your generous support.



Here are some key developments in the Luminarias University Program:

1. 2021 Pilot Plan: The program began virtually due to the pandemic, with students residing in an independent module at Casa Luminarias in San Lucas Sacatepéquez.
2. 2022 Transition: As classes resumed in person or in hybrid formats, we recognized the need to minimize travel time and ensure a conducive living environment. We rented a house in Guatemala City near the university to provide safe and dignified lodging, allowing students to focus on their studies without the burden of long commutes.
3. Comprehensive Support: Luminarias continues to cover all academic expenses, lodging, and food, made possible by the support of donors like you. This holistic approach is crucial for the students' success and well-being.
4. Community Engagement: Our students give back by volunteering at Casa Luminarias on weekends and conducting empowerment workshops in public schools, fostering a spirit of community service and leadership.



Your contributions have been instrumental in these achievements, providing opportunities for these ladies to excel academically and grow personally. We are deeply grateful for your belief in the transformative power of education, especially for girls in Guatemala. Your commitment to empowering impoverished young women offers them hope and opens up a future full of opportunities and choices that they might not otherwise have.

Thank you for your continued support and generosity! Together, we are making a profound difference in the lives of these students and their communities.

Together in service,

Hugh McElroy

Hugh McElroy, Founder