Last month I had the incredible opportunity to join AMSG’s volunteer trip to Honduras in support of One Thousand Schools, a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating extreme poverty and violence in Honduras through education and youth empowerment. My connection to Honduras runs deep. As someone with a rich heritage, this trip was especially significant to me. Sometime in the early or late 70s, my father’s family migrated to the U.S. from there, and we proudly identify as Honduran and Garifuna. This experience not only allowed me to contribute to a meaningful cause but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse cultures of Central America.
Growing up, my grandparents were a significant part of my life, and they taught me the importance of family, food, music, and giving back. My grandparents were always proud of me and my minor and major accomplishments. Times when I didn’t believe in my ability, they knew how to motivate and encourage me (whether with amazing home-cooked food or with a story about what they overcame, which was a lot).
I remember my first trip to Honduras vividly—it was for my grandparents’ wedding renewal when I was about six or seven. From flying into SAP airport to making the scenic 5–6-hour drive to my family’s home along the coast, I’m reminded of the country’s stunning landscapes—towering mountains and lush greenery that any plant lover would dream of. Despite some of the issues, like littering, the natural beauty of Honduras still captivates me today.
At their wedding renewal, the sense of community and the warmth of the people made a lasting impression on me. I still recall how the town’s church was filled with people who later celebrated with us, revealing the deep connections my grandparents and family had nurtured over the years by supporting and giving back to the community.
During my volunteer trip with AMSG and One Thousand Schools, I had the chance to explore more of Honduras than I had before. My family lives in Trujillo, which I would quickly summarize as a more laid-back Garifuna beach town. However, this time, my volunteer work with One Thousand Schools took me inland to El Progreso, a bustling city with a completely different vibe—louder, busier, and filled with conveniences like fast food, delivery services, grocery stores, and pulperias. Experiencing this side of Honduras was eye-opening, and I found it both fascinating and a bit of an adjustment from the slower pace I was accustomed to in Trujillo.
This trip reinforced my understanding of how diverse Honduras truly is, not just in its landscapes but also in its people and culture. I learned more about the different cultures in Honduras and gained a deeper appreciation for the vibrancy and resilience of the Honduran people. The dedication and commitment of the One Thousand Schools nonprofit team was truly inspiring. The masons, students (present and past), parents, and teachers from the nonprofit and the surrounding community all came together, volunteering their time and energy to ensure the students had a safe and welcoming place to learn for the upcoming school years and beyond. Their collective effort was nothing short of extraordinary; they understood the importance of the mission and went above and beyond to achieve a common goal that would benefit the entire community. Witnessing their relentless spirit and unwavering dedication, even in challenging conditions, was a constant source of motivation for me. Despite moments of mental physical and exhaustion, I pushed myself to give my very best, driven by the remarkable efforts of those around me. Their hard work and amazing character deserve immense recognition and appreciation.
Being part of this volunteer effort was more than just an act of service; it was a personal journey of discovery and growth. I am grateful to AMSG for this opportunity and look forward to continuing my involvement with such meaningful initiatives that bridge cultures and create lasting impacts.
Thank you for reading about my journey, and I hope it inspires you to explore your roots, give back, and embrace the diverse world around us.
Written by: Gabby Bonilla
Learn more about our outreach program here: Outreach Program | AMSG (amsgcorp.net)
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