The Guatemala Friends Scholarship Program was founded in 1973 by members of Guatemala’s small, unprogrammed Quaker meeting. What began as support for a single student has grown over the decades into a program that now accompanies nearly 100 university and secondary school students each year.

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From its beginning, the program was shaped by the values of the Religious Society of Friends (known as Quakers), a faith tradition with nearly 400 years of history. Originating in England in the 17th century, Quakers emphasized simplicity, equality, peace, integrity, community, and service—principles that strongly influenced the early vision of Progresa. While rooted in Protestant Christianity, Quakers practice their faith through “Meetings,” often without ministers, hierarchy, or formal programming.

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The founding Quaker meetings believed that education, offered within Guatemala, was a powerful way to expand opportunity and strengthen communities. The program was jointly supported by the Guatemala Friends Monthly Meeting and the Redwood Forest Friends Meeting in Santa Rosa, California, and has continued to receive support from both Quaker and non-Quaker friends who share a commitment to social responsibility and long-term impact.

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Over time, Progresa evolved beyond its original religious setting. Today, Progresa is a non-religious organization and no longer holds Quaker meetings as part of its activities. However, the values that inspired its creation remain central to its work. Respect for each individual, ethical leadership, shared responsibility, and community engagement continue to guide how we support students and relate to the communities we serve.

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Progresa honors its Quaker roots not as a religious identity, but as a foundation of values that continue to shape a program focused on dignity, opportunity, and trust in people.