”From devastation to triumph…the Yabal NGO was originally founded in October of 2005 to offer support to two communities in the highlands of Guatemala that were severely affected by Hurricane Stan.” In October of 2005, Hurricane Stan pummeled the pacific lowland coast of Guatemala causing devastating winds, flooding and landslides. The catastrophe left over 1,500 Guatemalans dead and the region in ruins. Without the option to remain in their destroyed areas, many indigenous communities, including Pacutama and Chuicutama, were forced to flee to higher ground.” Through pouring rain and horrific conditions, members of these communities walked high into the mountain highlands of Guatemala, ascending almost 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). With little choice, they relocated to an area near Santa Catarina Ixtahuacan nicknamed “Little Alaska“, one of the coldest and highest areas of Guatemala.”