Unidas Para Vivir Mejor, or United For a Better Life (UPAVIM) strives to provide opportunities for women to recognize their potential, both individually and as a group of women united by the desire to create a better life. UPAVIM’s mission is to support the women of La Esperanza in their fight for better economic, healthcare and educational opportunities for themselves, their families and their community.
Located in a "red zone" of Guatemala City, La Esperanza is a community plagued by gangs and violence. For the women of this community, UPAVIM offers a place of sanctuary. It is a space for them to be with their sisters and friends, the women of their community who give them love, hope, strength and purpose. It is also a place of employment to provide income and security for their families. While faced with the numerous challenges of poverty and violence, UPAVIM remains a beacon of hope for the women and children of this community.