Ten St. Agnes Academy seniors traveled to Guatemala for a week in June to work with Living Water, a non-profit organization aimed at providing clean drinking water to international communities in need. Students worked 12 hours each day, putting in hard, physical labor as they helped Las Palmas residents in the Champerico area drill a well for their village.

“The mission of the trip was to build a well for the village, but, at the same time, build relationships and foster a faith life in Christ,” said Director of Admissions Brigid Schiro, who chaperoned the trip. “Our young women returned with a deeper appreciation for the challenges others in our world face, for the diversity of our planet, and gratitude for others’ lives and circumstances. It is truly amazing to witness.”

Students also spent time working with local children to teach them issues related to health and hygiene.

“Meeting the people in the village was such a great experience. And seeing the well actually work was so exciting! To see all of our hard work payoff is something I will never forget,” said Senior Amy Gilligan.