Abstract:
Puentes is a six-year project implemented from April 10, 2017, to March 31, 2023, designed to improve the quality of life for youth ages 15-24 in the Western Highlands of Guatemala. The project provides knowledge and skills needed to serve as a bridge to economic opportunities and education, health, and social services. The purpose of this mid-term evaluation is to learn from Puentes’ experience and inform future youth development initiatives funded by USAID/Guatemala and other USAID Missions. It addresses two questions: 1) What are key considerations for stakeholders and implementers trying to give disadvantaged youth from the Western Highlands of Guatemala access to new or better employment opportunities? and 2) What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Puentes project approach to creating an enabling environment for youth to access new or better employment opportunities and related social support and services? Evaluation methods included analysis of documents and primary data from focus groups and interviews with youth, parents, project staff, and other stakeholders. Findings showed that young people are benefiting from the technical training and in-kind donations, and many are generating some income. Yet numbers remain relatively low for youth finding formal employment or launching businesses that produce substantial income. Financial and in-kind support have suffered major delays due to bureaucratic hurdles, causing frustration. Puentes is increasing formal education levels and fostering key soft skills for employment and entrepreneurship such as increased self-confidence, which especially benefit women. Most youth served by Puentes have established life goals and do not aim to migrate.