Frequently Asked Questions

General

Why Guatemala?

The original founders of Children of the Americas, Inc. had established family ties in Guatemala. At that time, it was recognized that Guatemala is an area of Central America that is severely medically under-served. Throughout the years of the organization’s development, Children of the Americas, Inc. has developed a strong support system in Guatemala, that encompasses relationships with the United States Embassy, the medical community, and various service organizations such as the Rotary Club. These relationships allow the organization to efficiently travel and work in various parts of the country.

Mission Trips

What are the qualifications for travel with the medical team to Guatemala?

Children of the Americas, Inc. medical missions are made up primarily of medical professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, family practice physicians, dentists, and nurses. We supply orthotic and prosthetic services to women and children on a donated basis. Also included in the group are interpreters and support staff for food preparation, crowd control, transportation, and supply management.

What is the expected cost for a volunteer to travel with the team?

Children of the Americas, Inc. constantly strives to keep costs for volunteers as low as possible. The volunteer is responsible for airline travel to the country, at an average cost of $650 to $800. In the event that the team is lodged in local hotels during the trip, volunteers are responsible for lodging costs, usually $20 to $25 per night. Local transportation and food are provided by the organization.

Our Stateside Program

What are the qualifications to become a host parent?

All host parents must be approved as licensed foster families as mandated by Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children guidelines. You can learn more about this procedure by accessing the “Stateside Program” heading on this web site. We are no longer a state licensed agency, but our requirements for fostering are as stringent as those required by the state of Kentucky.

Are adoption opportunities available through Children of the Americas, Inc.?

Children of the Americas, Inc. provides only short term placement in the United States for children receiving medical treatment. It does not provide adoption services or referrals.