Chiapas is one of the poorest states in all of Mexico, with a poverty rate of about 75%, with 47% living in extreme poverty. It is a region that has one of the largest and most diverse indigenous populations. Because of the remote and rugged terrain in Chiapas, many people have limited access to jobs, education, and modern advances. The biggest hurdle for most impoverished citizens to overcome is a basic education. Educational facilities are decrepit and unsafe. By the time children are old enough for high school they are mature enough to labor and help provide for their families, which leads to the high dropout rate.

The Founders of Koltael have been successfully working in this region since 2014 to create sustainable change in these isolated indigenous communities. We have developed relationships with local authorities and gained the trust of community leaders. These leaders have graciously welcomed us into their communities for almost a decade and recognize the important work we do.

In communities where we build a new high school facility, students’ attendance typically doubles, making a lasting impact on the devastating dropout rate.

Continued hands-on efforts focusing on education have proven to be the most successful way to break the poverty cycle. The in-person experience with members of the communities during these trips provides hope to the students that they can break the educational barriers of previous generations and builds meaningful relationships that will be an inspiration for a lifetime.