Help vulnerable children in Guatemala learn STEM skills
Cadaniño is a non-profit that helps vulnerable and at-risk children in Guatemala's slums through after-school programs that offer nutritional assistance, spiritual formation, and academic reinforcement, with a special focus on technology.
My name is Alexander Martiny, and I've always been interested in technology.
Over the last few years, I've taught myself 3D printing and learned programming from online courses by Google, Facebook, and IBM. And I'm now learning to use a laser engraver and CNC router. My interest and passion for technology have been fostered by my parents, who have provided me with the tools I need to learn and teach myself, and I want to give that same opportunity to other kids to do the same. And so by setting up these stem learning labs at the Cadaniño community centers, furnishing them with the necessary equipment, and providing training to the teachers who work with the kids, hundreds of students will have the opportunity to explore and learn about technology in a fun environment that equips them with the skills they need to be successful in a technology-driven world.
These STEM programs will build upon skills the students are already learning through their after-school programs at the Cadaniño Community Centers, where I have already started an introductory class demonstrating 3D printing techniques and introducing students to robotics through borrowed equipment.
We have made great progress with what we have, but I can get your help to purchase the necessary equipment. Then, we can help these students get to the next level in their learning.
So I'm willing to do all the work of setting this up and providing the training, I just need your help to make it possible. Will you pitch in and donate and help make a difference in the lives of these kids that will last for eternity.
Your tax-deductible donation will directly fund the setup of two STEM learning classrooms at Cadaniño community centers. This will enable 250 at-risk students in Guatemala to gain the tech skills that can change their lives. Your support is not just a donation, it's an investment in the future of these children.
STEM Lab Requirements
3 x 3D Creality Printers = $800
Laser Engraver = $550
TV for classes = $500
Electrical work = $350
4 x LEGO Education Spike Prime Sets =$1500
Tools & Supplies = $550
Paint = $150
Bookshelves = $600
Total = $5,000
If we are able to raise additional funds, we will purchase additional LEGO Education Spike Prime Sets to enable us to enroll more students in the Robotics Classes, a CNC router to teach pre-engineering ideas and SNAP Circuits learning tools to teach electronics and circuitry concepts.
CNC router = $5,000
Bambu Labs X1 Carbon 4 color 3D printers $2,000
LEGO Education Spike Prime Kits = $375
SNAP Circuits Kits = $200 each
After setting up the classrooms, I will be dedicating time every month to volunteering at the Cadaniño after-school programs. I will be teaching Robotics and STEM classes to students while also training the teachers how to use the equipment to provide sustainability to the program long term.
About Cadaniño
Cadaniño serves vulnerable children and families through afterschool programs that offer Spiritual Formation, Academic Reinforcement and Family Strengthening Services at our Community Impact Centers in Guatemala.
We hire local teachers from within the communities where we work and teach, train and empower them to serve.
Those we serve face immense difficulties because of poverty, crime, gangs, extortion and violence. Challenges that can be overwhelming and seem impossible to overcome.
But we have found that by coming alongside them and providing access to programs that beet their children's physical, educational, emotional and spiritual needs, and by pointing them to Christ, they can find hope and believe that a brighter future is possible.
Over the past years, we have seen incredible results in the lives of our students. In 2022 21% of our students made the honor roll at school. Children who had never touched are computer before are now learning computer / IT skills and web development. Shy, quiet kids are gaining confidence as they study God’s word and build a personal relationship with him.
Our team of 17 Guatemalan teachers does a fantastic job teaching, training, encouraging, and inspiring the students who come in every day. Our programs demonstrate that when you meet people where they are at, with the services they need, it is possible to bring about genuine change.
To learn more about Cadaniño visit