“What I treasure most in life is being able to dream. During my most difficult moments and complex situations, I have been able to dream of a more beautiful future.”
- Rigoberta Menchu, Guatemalan Social Rights Activist -
The Symbolism of the CasaSito Mural
The CasaSito Mural demonstrates our philosophy. There are many opportunities and problems in life. For those who participate in the CasaSito program, we give them tools that they can use to "catch" their dream. After going through our program, they see difficulties as challenges and they see problems as opportunities to grow. CasaSito does not hold their hand to reach the summit, but with us, they climb by themselves.
The Numbers Guiding the Dream
High School Graduation Rates
- 15.5%
Percentage of young people of official graduation age who graduated from high school in 2025.
Source: INE, Guatemala, 2025
Learning Outcomes
- Mathematics: 16.2%
- Reading: 35.4%
Percentage of graduating students reaching a satisfactory level on Guatemala's 2025 national assessment. Most high school graduates are not meeting proficiency standards in either subject.
Source: MINEDUC, DIGEDUCA, Evaluación Graduandos 2025
Higher Education
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Population with a bachelor's degree or higher: 4.56%
Only a small share of the population has completed university-level education, and the figure narrows further at the postgraduate level (0.48% hold a master's or doctorate).
Source: INE, Censo de Población y Vivienda 2018
Access & School Numbers
- Primary schools: 19,445
- Middle schools: 8,508
- High schools: 5,185
There are only about a quarter as many high schools as primary schools, and more than 80% of them are private - requiring families to cover tuition, transportation, and enrollment costs.
Source: INE, 2025
CasaSito Answering the Call
Founder Alice So Fong Lee had previously worked in Guatemala and fell in love with the people and culture. Alice and her husband Greg Schwendinger made the decision to make Guatemala their permanent residence. With passion, commitment, and knowledge they saw an opportunity to support educational projects in Guatemala.
Together they formed CasaSito Association. "Casa" (or home) because Alice and Greg wanted to create a place where everyone feels welcome. "Sito" was Alice’s nickname, as she is like the small and powerful Sito scooter engine.
Their goal for CasaSito was to establish a small, close-knit organization that could have a deep impact in the communities in which it works.
Be part of the story. Help us reach more young people, families, and school communities.
Your support joins the effort of Guatemalans working to strengthen their communities.
"The joint effort of my dedication and your generosity has culminated in a momentous milestone: earning my law degree. My vision does not stop with the degree — I plan to establish a legal office that is accessible to the community, to advocate for the rights of those who need it most."
— Gabriel Bacá Juan, graduate of CasaSito's Youth Development Program, Quiché
Our Values
Transparency and Honesty
In the manner in which we manage our funds
A Sense of Self-Improvement
Both within the team, youth and teachers. Self-evaluation and the desire to grow and improve, which requires effort and dedication.
Respect
For the dignity of our scholars and their families
A Sense of Belonging
We create an environment where participants, staff, volunteers, and donors feel a genuine sense of belonging and part of our mission.
Social Consciousness
Being aware of reality and pose solutions
Solidarity and Empathy
For our scholars and their families. We always take into account the wellbeing of everyone.
