Tennessee Lineworkers Bring Light – and Hope – to Rural Guatemala

Tennessee Lineworkers Bring Light – and Hope – to Rural Guatemala

Over the course of 17 days, a dedicated team of 15 volunteer lineworkers from seven electric cooperatives across Tennessee embarked on a life-changing mission to bring electricity to two remote villages in the mountains of Guatemala.

Working in the communities of Corral Viejo and La Paz, the crew constructed nearly eight miles of power lines across rugged terrain, connecting nearly 30 homes, two schools, and a small business to electricity for the very first time. The transformative effort means children can now study after dark, families can safely store food and medicine, and local entrepreneurs have the opportunity to grow their businesses.

Among the volunteers were two representatives from Volunteer Energy Cooperative – Kaleb Waldrop and Chris Miller – who proudly joined their fellow Tennesseans in this meaningful endeavor. While the physical demands of the work were immense, the emotional rewards were even greater.

“The people living in these areas have very little, yet they share so much joy that’s deeply humbling,” said Chris Miller. “It makes you reflect on your own life and realize how we treat electricity as such a small luxury, while for these people it is as one of the greatest advancements in their lifetime.”

For many residents, it marked the first time they could flip a switch and see their home illuminated.

“The mayor of Municipalidad de Guastatoya had been waiting for over a year to bring this program to life in these communities,” said Kaleb Waldrop. “When interacting with the residents, they never once complained about their living conditions. Instead, they showed an inspiring eagerness to learn about the work process and wanted to help in any way they could.”

In addition to building power lines, Volunteer Energy Cooperative donated 50 pairs of shoes for the children in the villages. VEC was honored to give back to the children in these areas, in such a small yet impactful way.

“From a father’s perspective, helping children in this way made the long time away from home feel more purposeful,” said Chris Miller.” Back home, shoes are often taken for granted – but in the remote villages of Guatemala, they are treasured. Witnessing that kind of gratitude and need puts a lot into perspective.”

This initiative was part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association International Program, which aims to extend electric service to underserved communities around the world. It reflects on the cooperative principle of Concern for Community – a commitment that transcends borders and speaks to the heart of what it means to serve.

This project wasn’t just about delivering electricity, it was about delivering opportunity, dignity, and connection. Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State, and our cooperatives take that legacy seriously. At VEC, volunteering isn’t just tradition—it’s our identity. It’s in our name: Volunteer Energy. We take pride in giving back, and this program is a powerful example of what it means to serve together. It’s truly special to contribute the skills and dedication we bring to our daily work as a united force for good.

“Working in a remote place, far from the comforts of our own home, alongside volunteers from across the state truly highlights the camaraderie and shared purpose that define Tennessee’s electric cooperatives,” said Kaleb Waldrop. “It’s an incredible feeling knowing that the skills you learn here can be put to such meaningful use. It makes you want to be part of programs like this all year long.”