Building schools abroad is definitely one of the most rewarding ways to contribute to assisting low-income areas in accessing education, and our recent renovation of Manuel Casalino Gruive school in the 12 de Junio community of Villa María del Triunfo, Peru, is a shining example. MEDLIFE has been active in this community for nearly 14 years, offering Mobile Clinics, constructing staircases and parks, and supporting long-term patient care. This renovation project is a reflection of the powerful impact construction projects paired with community collaboration can make.
Uplift Communities Through Construction Volunteer Opportunities
One of the most inspiring parts of this project was the overwhelming community involvement. From the school principal and teachers to parents and students, everyone showed up eager to help. Volunteers worked alongside the community members by painting colorful murals, doors, and walls, bringing new life and energy to the school’s atmosphere. Thanks to the funds raised from the volunteer’s donation goals, the team was able to install ceramic tiles on the floors, replace missing or broken glass on windows, repair stairs, and plaster walls that had previously been unsafe and made classrooms cold and uncomfortable.
As Ricardo Ccasani, Director of MED Programs, explained, a core MEDLIFE value is working 50/50 with the community; building projects with people, not just for them. This philosophy came to life in Villa María del Triunfo, where families and educators showed their dedication to creating a better learning environment. This kind of genuine partnership is rare and highlights the true power of construction volunteer opportunities in fostering sustainable development.
The principal of Manuel Casalino Gruive spoke with us after the renovation was complete and said: “We are truly grateful for all this great work. We are very, very grateful for the hearts of the people who are not from our environment, the people who come from far away. We will always remember you and what we have done this week with your collaboration on the floors. These children did not have these floors before, it was half majolica and half without majolica, and now at least they have a decent classroom with all the majolica installed. Thank you very, very much!”
Why Volunteer in Peru?
Volunteering in Peru through MEDLIFE offers an opportunity to be part of meaningful change that extends far beyond renovation projects and mobile clinics. The renovation of Manuel Casalino Gruive school didn’t just improve the infrastructure, it created a safer, warmer, and more welcoming space for students to learn and thrive. These improvements directly contribute to better educational outcomes, creating the foundations for success for so many young people.
To celebrate the completion of the renovation, the school organized a heartfelt cultural celebration featuring traditional dances. Volunteers, community members, and students shared food, laughter, and dance, culminating in an unforgettable day filled with joy and connection.
Projects focused on building schools abroad like this one demonstrate how impactful hands-on service can be. If you’re passionate about assisting low-income communities with accessing education, healthcare, and comprehensive infrastructure, consider joining a MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip and support communities across Latin America and Africa through our construction volunteer opportunities.
To learn more about getting involved with MEDLIFE today, fill out the interest form below, download our free brochure, or check out some of our upcoming trips!