In this episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson welcomes a long-time friend and respected community leader, Tom Heaton, founder of Mission Guatemala. The conversation explores Tom Heaton's deep connections to Indiana communities, the transformative power of Mission Guatemala, and lessons learned through decades of service, relationship-building, and global mission work.

The Power of Doing Over Talking

A recurring message from Tom Heaton throughout the episode is the importance of taking action. Frustration stemming from seemingly trivial disputes within local churches (“scuff marks on the family life center floor,” as Speaker A references at 04:43) led him to seek greater purpose. He realized, as inspired by Lily Tomlin's quote, that waiting for “somebody” to act wasn’t enough—he was “somebody” who could make a real difference. This revelation motivated him to channel his energy into work that changes lives, ultimately leading to the creation of Mission Guatemala.

Three Key Takeaways

1. Sustainable Impact Through Relationships and Partnerships

Mission Guatemala’s longevity—celebrating its 16th anniversary—testifies to the effectiveness of a collaborative approach. Tom Heaton highlights that the organization’s model centers on listening to communities and building projects with local input and “sweat equity” (14:19). Projects are not imposed but co-created; whether it’s providing medical care, supporting education, or improving infrastructure, Mission Guatemala’s work is grounded in mutual respect and partnership. This philosophy supports greater community buy-in and sustainability.

2. Meeting Needs on Multiple Fronts: Health, Education, Nutrition

Mission Guatemala addresses deep-rooted needs in health, education, and nutrition. Speaker A described the expansion of the original medical clinic to include a full-service pharmacy, lab testing, and support groups for diabetes and expectant mothers (07:27-08:48). The organization also brings crucial technology education to middle school students, filling the gap left by government underfunding (09:10). Nutritional support targets children under six, combating severe malnutrition—Guatemala ranks just behind Haiti in child malnutrition in the hemisphere (11:43). These coordinated efforts demonstrate how Mission Guatemala works holistically for long-lasting positive change.

3. Belonging and Connection Defy Borders

Finally, this episode is a testament to the belief that “we all belong to one another” (12:32). Phil Amerson observes that in a world dominated by narratives of division, Mission Guatemala stands as a clear example of how connection and partnership can transform lives, locally and globally. The sense of shared mission and “belonging exchange” bridges cultural and geographical gaps, reminding listeners that compassion and solidarity are powerful tools for change.

Final Reflections

The episode closes with a practical call to action—Mission Guatemala can be supported at missionguatemala.com (16:17). As Tom Heaton humbly says, “I am wildly blessed” (16:57), reflecting gratitude rather than self-importance. This episode not only recounts the story of Mission Guatemala but also underscores the podcast’s core ethos: to be and to do, to belong and to build, together.

Listeners are invited to reflect on where they might be somebody who steps up for meaningful change—whether at home or on a global stage.

• ABOUT TOM HEATON
• Tom Heaton is a retired United Methodist pastor who served congregations across Indiana for nearly thirty years and later led mission and justice ministries for the Indiana Conference of the UMC.
• He is also the founder of Mission Guatemala, a nonprofit ministry serving rural communities in Guatemala through healthcare, education, nutrition, and community development. His years in Guatemala deeply shaped both his faith and the way he understands prayer, suffering, and the presence of God in ordinary life.
• Tom holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the University of Evansville and a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary. He writes and speaks about faith, prayer, grief, and everyday life with honesty, warmth, and a pastor’s heart.