What Sponsorship Means
The young women in the Luminarias program come from indigenous communities in Guatemala, where access to education—especially for girls—can be limited by economic, cultural, and systemic barriers. They are identified as top academic achievers in their schools—bright, motivated students with strong potential—but whose families cannot afford the cost of continued education.
Without intervention, many would leave school by age 13 or 14 to work in the fields, shepherd animals, or sell goods to help support their families. For others, early marriage by ages 15 or 16 would likely bring their education to a permanent end. Sponsorship creates a different path—one where talent, effort, and determination are met with opportunity.
Education Made Possible
Sponsorship directly covers school tuition removing the financial barriers that would otherwise end a girl’s education.
Mentoring & Spiritual Formation
Each student receives ongoing mentoring and spiritual support to prepare her for a profession and help her become the strong, confident woman God created her to be.
Encouraging Relationship
As you walk alongside a young woman through engagement and encouragement, you’re invited into her journey of growth, perseverance, and hope.
Relationship, Thoughtfully Guided
We believe healthy relationships grow best within clear, loving boundaries. All sponsorship communication is intentionally structured and supported by Luminarias staff to ensure that each interaction is:
Sponsors and students connect through a combination of letters, updates, and guided conversations, with opportunities for deeper engagement at higher sponsorship levels.
The Young Women Are…
Girls ages 13–18
Girls in our main program, completing secondary school and receive mentoring and spiritual formation
Women ages 18–22
Young women pursuing university studies, preparing for professional and leadership roles
Sponsorship Levels
We invite you to consider becoming a sponsor and joining this community. Sponsorship levels are designed to reflect both the practical needs of the program and the depth of relationship you feel called to share. Below, you’ll find opportunities to partner at different levels—each one making a meaningful difference in the life of a young woman and the future she is building.
* All correspondence is reviewed and supported by staff to ensure healthy, encouraging communication. Zoom calls are moderated by staff and may be small-group or individual, depending on student preference. Students may choose the format of connection that best supports their studies and wellbeing.
When you sponsor a young woman through Luminarias, your support makes education possible—and your encouragement reminds her she is not walking alone. All sponsorship interactions are thoughtfully structured to honor each student’s time, privacy, and personal boundaries. Communication and visits are coordinated by Luminarias staff to ensure safety, dignity, and equity for every young woman in the program. Each participant engages at a level that supports her well-being, academic focus, and personal growth.
Who Can Sponsor
Luminarias sponsorships are designed to foster healthy, encouraging relationships for adolescent girls and young women. At this time, sponsorship is available to:
This approach reflects our commitment to emotional safety, mentorship, and appropriate boundaries during important stages of development. All communication is guided and supported by our staff.
