Friends of SEMILLA is a United States-based IRC 501(c)(3) public charity. The Friends generate unrestricted and special financial support for SEMILLA Latin American Anabaptist Seminary and assists with promotion of SEMILLA’s CASAS (Central American Study and Service) program throughout North America.

Our Roots

Incorporated in the State of Ohio in 2002, Friends of SEMILLA initially generated charitable support for the building of the SEMILLA Latin American Anabaptist Seminary campus in Guatemala City.

The original board consisted of three members: Steve Steiner, Margaret Thut, and Amzie Yoder. After construction was completed, these three maintained an annual appeal to donors, raising occasional special support for larger needs. These founders continue to this day as active volunteers.

Expanded Involvement

In 2014, realizing the need for increased fundraising, the board created the position of North American Ambassador. Since then, board size and geographical representation have been increased, with commensurate growth in charitable support and expanded awareness of the services CASAS provides to North American university and seminary students and other adult learners.

In 2024, Friends of SEMILLA has a goal of raising $500,000 for scholarships for SEMILLA’s Latin American seminary students, North American marketing of the CASAS program, and growth of the North American support base.

A Professional Opportunity

Friends of SEMILLA is expanding the role of North American Ambassador to a full-time professional position. A search for a qualified fundraising professional with nonprofit leadership experience and a passion for the work of SEMILLA has been launched, with the goal of filling the role by the end of 2024.

Jerry Kennell
North American Ambassador
ambassadors@semillagt.org

Leonor Kennell
Administrative Assistant
usadmin@semillagt.org