Over and over, the people of Chimaxyat offered thanks. At a bonfire celebration the last night, one man said, "You are the light in our path to success … and through these projects we can stay together."

Tears flowed as the group left, Mayan villagers and Americans alike not wanting to speak the words "we might never see each other again."

CHOICE Humanitarian expedition leader Steven Handley said the Beneficial group was inspiring and inspired.

"They've been amazing. They've been really open to different possibilities and looking at their own poverty and their own wealths and ways that they can learn from these villagers. I would bet that most people here would say that they have taken back just as much, if not more, than what they've given on this trip."

As buses carrying volunteers made their way down the mountain, a little boy ran to the edge of the road and yelled, "Hey, gringos!" with an enthusiastic wave and big smile.

No ugly Americans here, just a band of co-workers who shared their determination, their skills and their hearts.

E-MAIL: carole.mikita@ksl.com

For more on this story, watch Carole Mikita's report on KSL-TV, Ch. 5, Monday at 10 p.m.