For Jan Parker, volunteering with Limitless Horizons Ixil is about more than lending a helping hand—it’s about finding purpose, building connections, and being part of something bigger than herself. From weekly banking to coordinating donor mailings, Jan has become a cornerstone of LHI’s U.S. operations. Her journey began in 2015 with a leap of faith and a trip that would change her life forever.
“It’s so funny to think back on it,” Jan recalls with a laugh. “My two best friends Eileen and Lee and I signed up for a Community Engagement Trip after reading about it in a Rising International newsletter. Katie Morrow, LHI’s Executive Director, and I lived just ten minutes apart in Santa Cruz, but we didn’t even meet until we arrived in Antigua!” That chance meeting sparked a long-lasting friendship and a commitment that continues to inspire Jan nearly a decade later.
The trip was transformative. “It felt like the gods aligned,” Jan reflects. “Everything was meticulously planned, and we were supported every step of the way. It was such a joy to see the Community Library in action, watching children light up as they read books and participated in story hour.” But it was the deeper, more personal experiences that left an indelible mark—visiting students’ homes, sharing meals, and trying her hand at back-strap weaving. “Being in their homes, seeing how hard families work, and meeting the students compelled me to do what I can to help,” Jan explains.
Since that life-changing visit to Chajul, Jan has stayed deeply involved with Limitless Horizons Ixil as a donor, sponsor, and volunteer, ensuring the organization runs smoothly through her tireless volunteer efforts. Whether picking up the mail, depositing donations, or coordinating annual mailings, Jan finds joy and fulfillment in every task. “Getting to pick up the mail and deposit donations is the best volunteer job in the world!” she says.
Jan is also inspired by LHI’s incredible community of fellow supporters. “Our donors often include heartfelt notes with their checks, and I’m in awe of their generosity,” she shares. “Despite all the polarization in the world, our donor community comes together for something bigger than ourselves: the education of eager students in Guatemala.”
Reflecting on Limitless Horizons Ixil’s 20 years of impact, Jan is filled with pride. “It’s unbelievable that just two decades ago, just 10 students were supported with nominal tuition payments at the local junior high school. Now, there’s a state-of-the-art middle and high school in Chajul,” she marvels. “LHI encompasses so much—STEM training, technology, personal development, healthy meals, mentoring, and post-graduate support. Who wouldn’t want to be part of an organization like this?”
Jan’s journey with LHI is now coming full circle. In March 2025, she will return to Chajul—this time with her daughter and granddaughter. “It’s incredibly special to share this experience with them,” Jan says. “I can’t wait for them to see the impact Limitless Horizons Ixil is having on students’ lives.”
Many often ask about the secret behind our success, and the answer lies in the partnership between our amazing local staff and our heartful community of supporters, volunteers, and board members. Jan is an essential part of this community, one that makes our work possible—work that creates opportunities for students in Chajul to make academic strides and become future leaders of their community. “Volunteering with Limitless Horizons Ixil brings me so much joy,” Jan says. “This work matters, and I’m proud to be part of it. I couldn’t ask for more.”