Luminarias

At Luminarias, we believe that one gift can change many lives. Thanks to generous supporters here in Minnesota and beyond, we are enabling indigenous adolescent girls in Guatemala to break the cycle of poverty—and become the leaders of tomorrow. Luminarias transforms the lives of these girls through safe housing, quality education, leadership development, and community support. Founded in 2015 by Hugh McElroy, an executive with 3M in Saint Paul, Luminarias believes that when girls are given safety, opportunity, and encouragement, entire communities rise.

WHY THIS WORK IS NEEDED

In Guatemala, especially in rural and indigenous communities, girls face overwhelming barriers to safety, education, and opportunity. Many leave school as early as age thirteen to work in the fields or care for siblings, and fewer than half complete secondary education. Many are married by the age of 15. Without support, their futures become limited long before they have the chance to dream. Luminarias exists to change that.

A HOME THAT NURTURES POTENTIAL 

Our residential home in San Lucas Sacatepéquez welcomes girls ages 12–18 into a safe, family-style environment. By limiting enrollment to 16 girls, we ensure that each young woman receives individualized care and mentoring she deserves. At Luminarias, each girl finds a secure place to live and thrive, along with nutritious meals, holistic health support, and the academic tutoring and study resources she needs to succeed in school. She also receives emotional and spiritual guidance within a caring community that truly feels like home—a foundation that allows her to imagine a brighter future and pursue it with strength.

EDUCATION THAT OPENS DOORS

Luminarias provides the stability and resources girls need to succeed in school, graduate, and move confidently toward university or vocational pathways. Our girls attend strong local secondary schools, participate in leadership development activities, and receive guidance as they choose careers that will allow them to support themselves and contribute to their communities.

IMPACT THAT EXTENDS BEYOND ONE GIRL

As girls grow in confidence and leadership, the ripple effect reaches far beyond our home. Graduates become role models, mentors, and contributors to their families and neighborhoods—helping strengthen Guatemala one community at a time. The long-term impact is powerful: educated young women uplift entire families and help break generational cycles of poverty. We develop strong women of character by nurturing their physical, intellectual, social, spiritual and emotional health. Through guided workshops and extracurricular activities, girls learn to value themselves and realize their dreams.

More than 100 young girls have completed the Luminarias program in the past ten years, many of whom have gone on to university or vocational training. 

YOUR GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

This annual giving campaign helps ensure that every girl in our care has what she needs today—and opens the door for those still waiting for a safe place to call home. Your generosity provides stability, education, mentorship, and opportunity. When you give, you help a girl step into her potential and build a future filled with possibility.

HONORING OUR FOUNDER - A LEGACY ROOTED IN MINNESOTA

Luminarias was founded through the vision and faith of Hugh McElroy, a longtime Minnesota resident whose leadership at 3M and deep commitment to his church shaped his lifelong dedication to service. Hugh believed that every girl—no matter her circumstances—deserved safety, dignity, education, and the chance to flourish. His heart for Guatemala and his unwavering belief in the promise of young women continue to guide our work today. 

As we carry forward Hugh’s legacy, we invite you to make a gift through this campaign. Your generosity keeps his vision alive—extending the values he lived out in Minnesota and creating opportunity for girls who are ready to rise.

STAY CONNECTED WITH US

Facebook: www.facebook.com/luminariasproject/

Website: www.luminariasproject.com/

You can also make a gift by sending a check made out to Luminarias Project to P.O. Box 40434, Saint Paul, MN, 55104

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