Hug It Forward

12/10/2026

The name “Bottle School” tends to raise a few questions.

No, the bottles aren’t holding up the school. But they are a pretty important part of the story.

By turning plastic bottles and inorganic waste into eco-bricks, communities are finding a new purpose for materials that might otherwise end up in the environment while helping create something their children will use for years to come.

And this is only one piece of how a Bottle School works.…

01/10/2026

Today in Guatemala, we celebrate Día del Niño — Children’s Day!

Across the country, schools celebrate with games, piñatas, treats, gifts, and plenty of reasons for kids to have a little extra fun.

But beyond the celebrations, Día del Niño is also a day to recognize the rights, well-being, and future of every child.

We feel incredibly lucky to work alongside communities where we get to meet so many curious, joyful, and inspiring kids — and to help create spaces where they can continue to learn and grow.

¡Feliz Día del Niño! 💙

30/09/2026

What if your next trip was about more than just seeing a new place?

A Bottle School Trip is a chance to experience Guatemala differently. You’ll work alongside community members, get your hands dirty, experience the culture, and be part of something bigger than a typical vacation.

You don’t need construction experience. You don’t need to speak Spanish. You just need to come ready to participate, connect, and experience Guatemala with an open mind.

We’ve been facilitating trips since 2011, and nearly 4,000 people have joined us along the way.

Maybe you’re next?

Swipe through to learn what a Bottle School Trip looks like, what’s included, and how to join us.

Ready to experience it for yourself?

15/09/2026

Today, Guatemala celebrates 205 years of independence. 🇬🇹

Every September 15, the country fills with blue and white flags, marching bands, music, parades, and traditions that bring communities together across Guatemala.

For us, it’s also a day to celebrate the country at the heart of everything we do — its communities, its culture, and most importantly, its people.

Happy Independence Day, Guatemala!

¡Feliz Día de la Independencia! 🇬🇹

09/09/2026

A little update from Chuachún. 🇬🇹

With Guatemala’s Independence Day celebrations coming up on September 15, Joel visited the community to talk with students about something especially important during these celebrations: taking care of their environment.

They talked about not throwing trash in the streets, being mindful of water use, and understanding why water scarcity is an issue that affects communities across Guatemala.

And there’s even more exciting news from Chuachún: their Bottle School is now in the final stages of construction!

23/08/2026

Last Thursday, Hug It Forward had the opportunity to break ground on a new two-classroom project in the community of Chipastor, San Martín Jilotepeque! 🧱🌱📚

This project is made possible through the strong commitment and participation of the community, along with the valuable support of the Municipality, which will provide skilled labor. Together, we are taking the first step toward creating safe and dignified spaces where children can learn, grow, and build a brighter future. 💚✨

10/08/2026

06/08/2026

Some of the most meaningful words you’ll hear this week. 💛

Before the first bottle is placed, before the concrete is poured, the community shares what these new classrooms will mean for their children and future generations.

Thank you to every volunteer who makes moments like this possible. Together, we’re building more than classrooms—we’re building hope.

17/07/2026

Welcome to Guatemala, Ed & Lisa Guerrero’s group! 💛🇬🇹

We’re so grateful to welcome this incredible team back for another Bottle School Trip. Thank you, Ed and Lisa, for your continued commitment to the communities of Guatemala and for believing in the power of education to create lasting change.

Your willingness to return, serve, and build alongside local families means more than words can express. Every trip strengthens communities, creates opportunities for children, and reminds us what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared purpose.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We’re excited to build, learn, and make new memories together this week! 🌎

15/07/2026

Earlier this week, we celebrated the inauguration of our 156th Bottle School in Santa Apolonia, Chimaltenango! 🏫💚

This milestone was made possible through the incredible collaboration of the local community, dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and supporters who believe in our mission. Thank you to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and passion to help make this dream a reality. ❤️♻️

This new classroom is more than just a building—it represents hope, opportunity, environmental stewardship, and a brighter future for the children who will learn there for years to come.

To our community partners, volunteers, donors, and everyone who supports Hug It Forward: thank you. Every Bottle School we build is proof that when we work together, we can create lasting change.

Together, we’re building stronger communities and transforming lives—one Bottle School at a time. 🌎✨

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