Walipini Impact Build 2026
San Andrés, Guatemala
Walipini Impact is dedicated to empowering communities through our Walipini Impact Build. The build is done at no cost for the recipient and aimed to benefit a community with demonstrated need to improve food security. Working with local partners, we create a system together that is practical, maintainable, and rooted in the way the community already grows.
In March 2026, we partnered with Be Humanitarian to complete a shade house structure in San Andrés, Guatemala, for our second impact build.
Be Humanitarian is a Utah-based organization focused on improving the lives of children and families in Guatemala through hands-on volunteer efforts, expanding access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and long-term self-sustainability.
Our Walipini Impact structure was designed as a starting point for food production- a place where plants can be grown, protected, and distributed into the community. As it is used and cared for over time, it has the potential to support long-term food access for the community.
Partner Link
Guatemala Impact Build
Our work in Guatemala was built on a strong foundation of partnership and community leadership. Through our collaboration with Be Humanitarian, we were able to connect with a community already deeply engaged in improving their own future.
Partnership & Planning
Our journey began months before arriving in Guatemala. Planning was centered around designing a structure that could be built with locally available materials, maintained by the community, and used in a way that fit existing growing practices.
Through conversations with Be Humanitarian and local leaders, we aligned on a shared goal: to create a space where plants could be started, protected, and distributed back into the community.
In preparation for the build, the community came together to ready the land. Led by a dedicated group of women, they cleared and shaped the site where the structure would stand. Their strength and commitment were evident in the work they accomplished, and it reflected a clear sense of ownership and excitement for what we would build together.
The Build
When we arrived in San Andrés what stood out immediately was the energy of the community. Long days of physical labor were met with resilience, humor, and a shared sense of purpose.
Over six days, we worked side-by-side with community members to complete the shadehouse structure.
Each element was chosen to reflect the local environment and ensure the structure could be maintained and repaired using available resources.
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A solid base and lower wall system to provide stability
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A bamboo roof structure to support locally accessible construction methods
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UV-resistant plastic roofing to protect crops from heavy rain and direct sun
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Bug netting and reinforced walls to reduce pests and crop loss
Looking Forward
This build was shaped by the people involved.
For those familiar with Guatemala, the strength and work ethic of the community is well known. What made this experience unique was the connection built through shared effort.
One of the most meaningful aspects of the build was working alongside a strong group of women from the community. Their consistency, leadership, and presence played a critical role in bringing the structure to life.
The shadehouse in San Andrés is a starting point for community ownership over their own food production.
As it is used and cared for, it will provide a space to start plants, protect crops, and improve consistency in food production. Over time, it has the potential to strengthen local food access and support long-term community resilience.
Like every Walipini Impact Build, its success will not be measured by the structure itself, but by how it is used, adapted, and owned by the community.
Bring a Walipini Impact Build to a Community
We work with partners, organizations, and individuals to build sustainable food systems where they are needed most.
Whether you are looking to bring a build to your community, support an upcoming project, or contribute resources, we would love to connect.
