For nearly five decades, AMIS Atlanta (Atlanta Ministry with International Students) has quietly but powerfully changed the lives of thousands of international students through a simple yet profound approach: friendship.
In this episode of the Charity Charge Show, we sit down with Camille Kesler, Executive Director of AMIS, to discuss how the organization welcomes students from across the globe and connects them with local volunteers.
Drawing on her decades of leadership in both corporate and nonprofit sectors—including roles with Rebuilding Together Atlanta, Junior League of Atlanta, and more, Camille brings an empathetic, entrepreneurial, and strategic approach to AMIS.
The conversation dives into the value of cross-cultural relationships, the challenges of running a lean nonprofit, the art of board governance, and the deeper impact of hospitality as a tool for peacebuilding.
About AMIS Atlanta
Founded in 1978 by Dr. Fahed Abu Akhel, an international student from Palestine, AMIS was created with a vision: that every international student studying in Atlanta should feel welcomed, supported, and valued.
What started as a ministry rooted in local churches has evolved into a non-religious 501(c)(3) organization that partners with volunteers and students of all backgrounds.
At its core, AMIS provides friendship, hospitality, and cultural connection. Through programs like the Amigo one-on-one friendship match, annual welcome receptions, and Thanksgiving dinner placements, AMIS helps international students feel at home—and in doing so, fosters mutual understanding and global goodwill.
Highlights from the Interview
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A Nonprofit Journey Built on Service: Camille shares her path from corporate HR and small business ownership to full-time nonprofit leadership—underscoring a deep personal commitment to service and community.
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The Power of a Simple Dinner Table: From Thanksgiving meals to welcome receptions, AMIS proves that everyday moments of connection can reshape worldviews and promote peace.
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Small Nonprofits, Big Impact: Camille offers a candid look into the operational realities of running a small nonprofit, the challenges of fundraising, and the need for funders to support smaller, mission-driven organizations.
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Building a Purposeful Board: Camille outlines a framework for recruiting diverse, values-aligned, and action-oriented board members—and why every board member must be part of the development team.
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Volunteers as World Citizens: With over 18 years as a volunteer herself, Camille advocates for volunteers as essential ambassadors who help shape how international students view American culture—and vice versa.
How to Get Involved with AMIS Atlanta
If you’re in the Atlanta area and want to support international students, AMIS offers a variety of ways to engage:
🔗 Visit amisatlanta.org to:
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Sign up as a volunteer through the Amigo Program
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Host international students for Thanksgiving
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Attend or support the annual Welcome Reception
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Make a one-time or recurring donation
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Learn more about their mission, team, and impact
Whether through friendship, a financial gift, or simply extending hospitality, AMIS invites everyone to help walk the path toward greater peace and global understanding.
Full Interview Transcript (Q&A Format)
Matt Bradshaw: Camille, thank you for being with us today. Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to join the nonprofit sector?
Camille Kesler: I started in the corporate world after graduating from the University of Georgia. Over time, I felt the pull to help others more directly, so I transitioned into nonprofit work—leading organizations, volunteering, and serving on over ten nonprofit boards. I also owned a bakery while raising three daughters! After COVID, I returned to my nonprofit roots and joined AMIS as a board member before stepping into the executive director role.
Matt: What is AMIS Atlanta, and how did it get started?
Camille: AMIS stands for Atlanta Ministry with International Students. It was founded 47 years ago by Dr. Fahed Abu Akhel, a Palestinian student who experienced the warmth of an American host family and wanted other students to feel the same. Today, AMIS is a non-religious nonprofit that connects international students with local volunteers, offering kindness, friendship, and cultural exchange.
Matt: As a volunteer-turned-executive director, what impact have you seen firsthand?
Camille: The impact is deeply personal. My family and I have met students from all over the world—many of whom become lifelong friends. I remember a student from Turkey at our Thanksgiving table who was amazed by the cultural traditions here. Those shared experiences stay with you and change how you see the world.
Matt: What are the biggest challenges small nonprofits face?
Camille: Balancing mission with operations is tough. Funders often favor large organizations, but small nonprofits like ours make just as much impact—sometimes even more intimately. Our biggest needs are volunteers and funding to sustain our programs and staff.
Matt: Can you share a moment that really illustrates AMIS’s impact?
Camille: We once hosted a student from Tunisia who, during dinner, mentioned hearing anti-American sentiments back home. But after experiencing our hospitality, she said, “If only they could see how kind Americans truly are.” That moment made me realize we’re doing more than hosting—we’re shaping perceptions globally.
Matt: What’s your approach to working with and building a strong board?
Camille: Diversity is key—not just race or gender, but also in skills, geography, and perspectives. Every board member should support fundraising and help recruit new talent. A board should regenerate itself so the mission lives on beyond any one person.
Matt: AMIS relies heavily on volunteers. How do you engage and retain them?
Camille: We create meaningful ways to connect—like hosting students for Thanksgiving, attending our welcome reception, or joining the Amigo program. Volunteering doesn’t just help the students; it transforms the volunteers too. You truly become a global citizen.
Matt: What’s the best way for people to support your work?
Camille: Visit amisatlanta.org. You can sign up to volunteer, host a student, or make a donation. Every contribution helps us continue providing friendship, hospitality, and support for international students.
Matt: Camille, thank you so much for sharing your story and the important work of AMIS.
Camille: Thank you, Matt. I’m truly grateful.
Final Thought
“Walk together, talk together, all you nations of the world—only then shall you have peace.” — AMIS Motto (Old Sanskrit Saying)
This simple phrase guides the mission of AMIS Atlanta and is brought to life through every volunteer, student, and supporter who believes in building a better, more connected world.
