The Founders of Genesis Diez
| [Ken] | [Greg] | [History] |
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Ken Amstutz
Ken is a man of deep compassion for the plight of children living without the immediate care of family. Ken has decades of experience as an educator in subjects such as Social Studies, Art, Science, and Social Psychology. This breadth of knowledge qualifies Ken to link "hands-on" education to Genesis programs. Add his years as a coach, art club, yearbook and senior class advisor, along with his experience as an Academic Counselor, and you have a man that understands a child's problems and has the ability to direct their energy and creativity in ways to improve their lives. In addition, Ken has years of business management in both corporate and independent ventures.
Ken has been a Sunday school teacher, youth director, a Christian Education Board member and served on Bluffton's Board of Education, the Volunteer Fire Department as an EMT, the Optimist Club, and the Business Association. He also worked with the Allen County Children's Services agency of Ohio and became the legal guardian of two children. Ken credits his wife of 25+ years, Doris, as the heart of his ability to make a difference. Without her added support, Genesis could have never become a reality.
An active outdoorsman, runner, and a certified Wilderness First Responder, Ken uses his decades of teaching experience to provide a potent mix of skills and experiences to help lead Genesis Diez, A.C. into learning opportunities that are relevant and fun. One conversation with Ken will assure anyone of the determination Genesis has to make real changes in the lives of children.
Greg Amstutz
Greg's business sense, attention to detail, and being a "people person", allowed him to be the successful owner of two thriving contracting companies, spanning a 23 year period. This business experience along with guidance from trusted advisors has proven to be invaluable in the formation of Genesis.
Greg's love of the outdoors has led him to explore the byways of Baja for over 25 years. Greg has been a avid outdoor adventurer his entire life. Backpacker, tri-athlete, kayaker, rock-climber, fisherman, lifeguard, and scuba instructor, Greg has led and taught nearly every variety of outdoor activity.
Immersing himself with training and augmenting his wilderness experience, Greg joined the San Diego Mountain Rescue Team where he became an instructor and was elected to their board of directors. As an Instructor for A-16 Outdoor Adventures, Greg led rock-climbing classes during which time he earned his Wilderness First Responders medical certification.
Since 1991, Greg has volunteered in youth ministry, including 14 months as Director of Student Ministries. He is co-leader for Church mission trips, retreats, and outdoor adventure ministry. When talking with Greg, you know he is a man of strong passion - for God, family, children, the outdoors and Church missions. 
History
The following abbreviated history gives a simple view of our growth.
Inception: Genesis had its start in 1991 as Founders Ken and Greg Amstutz volunteered with several associated organizations helping in Baja, Mexico build housing and medical clinics to orphanage facilities.
Commitment: By 1995, a decision was made to understand the orphanage system in Baja, research its scope and create a database to focus volunteer activity towards the orphanages.
Establishment: Connections to both DIF and SEP (Mexico's social service and education departments) and orphanage directors by 1998 lead to the ability to work more closely with the children and build essential relationships.
Development: By 2000, Genesis had created a presence in the United States and Mexico, had an office in Ensenada, Baja Norte with two full-time staff for Mexican operations, and had shifted its emphasis to fill the much needed niche of educational enrichments. Genesis also solidified its Board of Directors and Advisory Council. The experience and passion of these individuals will guide Genesis through its continuing growth.
Expansion: Having served thousands of orphanage children and volunteers over the years, 2006 sees Genesis taking on the need for a wider system approach to effect the lives of the orphanage children of Baja. A renewed commitment is being initiated with the desire to expand into orphanage staff development, greater volunteer efficiency and utilization, increased coordination of programs with measurable results, and associated skills training, literacy, and enrichments.
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