Hearts in Motion

FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We offer short-term service trips to Guatemala and Ecuador focused on:

  • Medical Care General medicine, surgery, dental care, vision screening, cervical screenings, and women’s health
  • Therapy Services Physical, occupational, speech, and music therapy
  • Community Support Home building and community construction projects, daycare assistance, social work, and firefighter training
  • Specialized Programs Helping Babies Breathe/Mother’s Survive, music camps, and interdisciplinary trips (music, yoga, therapy, sewing)

Trips typically last 8–10 days, including travel time.

Our teams serve in both urban and rural areas, bringing essential care and support to underserved communities.

Registration closes two weeks before the trip start date. Once closed, we’re unable to add additional team members—so don’t wait!

Trips require a minimum of 12 participants. If your group is smaller, we’ll gladly pair you with another team to meet the minimum.

Do I need professional experience?
Not at all! We welcome medical professionals, students, skilled tradespeople, Spanish speakers, and anyone with a heart to serve. Each trip is customized to match your skills and interests.

Is there an age requirement?
Volunteers must be 18 or older. Those under 18 may participate with a parent or guardian or be part of a youth group. Some university-led trips may have specific age requirements.

Can I volunteer with a group?
Yes! We welcome schools, youth groups, churches, universities, and corporate teams.

How much does it cost?
Trips range from $1,150–$1,350, covering lodging, majority of meals while in Guatemala, ground transportation, emergency medical insurance, and program fees. Airfare is not included.

Is the trip fee tax-deductible?
Yes! 100% of your trip fee is tax-deductible as it supports our nonprofit programs.

Can I fundraise for my trip?
Absolutely! We provide fundraising tools and tips to help you reach your goal.

Do I need a passport or visa?
A valid passport is required. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Guatemala or Ecuador. Expiration date must be at least 6 months out from travel date.

Is it safe to travel with HIM?
Yes. We provide 24/7 in-country support and work with trusted local partners. Volunteers are accompanied by experienced team leaders.

Is emergency insurance included?
Yes. We include emergency medical insurance for the duration of your trip. We also recommend purchasing travel cancellation insurance.

Do I need vaccinations?
We recommend checking the CDC website and consulting your doctor. Common vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus.

What should I pack?
We provide a detailed packing list tailored to your trip type and destination.

Will there be orientation or training?
Yes. All volunteers receive pre-trip orientation and on-site guidance.

Can I earn academic credit?
Yes! Many participants are eligible to earn academic credit through our program. We’re happy to provide documentation.

What kind of experiences will I have?
Trips to Guatemala and Ecuador combine meaningful service with cultural immersion. The Guatemala trip includes 1-2 days of relaxation in Antigua, Guatemala.

Guatemala Trips

  • Groups under 30 participants: HIM House in Teculután
  • Larger groups: Hotel Atlantico in Rio Hondo
  • All volunteers enjoy 1-2 nights in Antigua at the end of the trip

Ecuador Trips

  • Our group will be staying at trusted hotels while in Ecuador.

What’s included in the trip fee?

  • Lodging
  • Meals (some exclusions apply)
  • Ground transportation
  • Project materials
  • Emergency medical insurance24/7 in-country support

What’s not included?

  • Airfare
  • Breakfast and lunch in Antigua (for Guatemala Teams)
  • Souvenirs
  • Meals at the airport
  • Optional excursions

Relaxation in Antigua, for Guatemala Teams
Enjoy two days in the beautiful colonial city of Antigua, Guatemala with optional low-cost excursions like volcano hikes, cultural tours, and more.

Getting Started

Visit our Volunteer Trips page to view upcoming trips and complete the Online Trip Registration Form. Medical professionals should also complete the Healthcare Provider Form.

Questions? Contact

Aaron Frazita
Mission Trip Director
aaron@heartsinmotion.org
219-924-2446