Guatemala is one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere, and faces special challenges due to the large indigenous population and the recent civil war. Fundamental issues in Guatemala exist on a scale not seen in most developed countries. Rural Guatemalans, especially the indigenous, face some very serious challenges, especially in the areas of health, poverty, literacy, and human rights. In meetings with Pura Vida, Guatemalan villagers they have repeatedly stressed the need for education.