Growing Compassion. Inspiring Change.
At Seed of Kindness Corp., we believe every gesture of goodwill is a seed that can grow into a forest of change
Our Mission
Sowing the Seed (Stability)
Moved by compassion and our shared humanity, we respond to suffering with care and presence. We provide immediate financial support to vulnerable families, offering relief, dignity, and the reassurance that they are not alone.
Deepening the Roots (Sustainability)
We believe every woman carries inner strength and wisdom. Through small loans and compassionate support, we empower widows to rebuild their lives, create sustainable livelihoods, and stand firmly on their own path with confidence and hope.
The Blossom of Peace (Safety)
Guided by loving-kindness, we foster safe homes free from fear. Through awareness, protection, and compassionate support, we work to prevent domestic violence and heal the family unit, restoring trust, dignity, and peace for generations to come.
“Human beings are members of a whole,
In creation of one essence and soul.If one member is afflicted with pain,
Other members uneasy will remain.If you have no sympathy for human pain,
The name of human you cannot retain.”— Saadi Shirazi
Meet Our President
Qais “Casey” Arefi
Founder & President
Qais Arefi is the founder and President of Seed of Kindness, an organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable families through compassion, stability, and non-violence. Born in Kabul, Afghanistan, he grew up surrounded by war and witnessed firsthand how violence can fracture families and communities. Choosing a different path, he refused to participate in conflict and instead committed his life to healing and peace.
After years of displacement and rebuilding his life abroad, Qais founded Seed of Kindness to support widows, children, and families facing hardship. Guided by the belief that violence cannot be healed with more violence, only with loving-kindness. He works to create lasting change through financial support, empowerment, and education.
Serving as President for a symbolic salary of $1 per year, Qais dedicates himself to ensuring that resources reach those who need them most, planting seeds of compassion that can grow into a more peaceful future.
Board of Directors & Employees
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Sitara Attaie
Director of Media Relations
Sitara Attaie is an actress, journalist, and multilingual advocate supporting the mission of Seed of Kindness. For the Afghan Youth Representative of the United Nations, she is appointed “Executive Media & Communications Lead” for the campaign #hestandswithher.
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Jackie Meltz
Chairperson of the Board
Dr. Jackie Meltz is a scholar-practitioner and licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma and resilience. With academic and clinical expertise, she brings a trauma-informed lens to Seed of Kindness, ensuring compassionate, research-grounded leadership at every level of outreach.
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Shawn Baumgarter
Director, Board of Directors
Shawn Baumgartner brings a global perspective and lifelong commitment to philanthropy to Seed of Kindness. With experience mentoring youth in Los Angeles and supporting charitable initiatives worldwide, she combines personal resilience, professional leadership, and service to uplift vulnerable communities.
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Shahnaz Qayumi
Developmental Psychology & Education
Shahnaz Qayumi is an educator, founder, and author with decades of experience in early childhood education, developmental psychology, trauma-informed practice, and community empowerment. Her work bridges education, social justice, and global humanitarian initiatives.
Stories of Impact
Hear directly from families whose lives have been transformed through Seed of Kindness.
“I would like to thank the Seed of Kindness organization for their love and great support. We are six people in our family, and their help has meant everything to us. We are deeply grateful for their kindness.”
— Supported Family
“I sincerely thank you, Mr. Qais, for all the support, guidance, and encouragement you have given me. Your help truly made a difference in my life.”
— Program Participant
“Two and a half years ago, Seed of Kindness helped us survive and stand on our feet. Today, we run a small grocery shop together as a family. We hope one day we can help others too.”
— Family of 14
Get in Touch
We are grateful for interest in our mission! To learn more about Seed of Kindness and how you can help our cause, please get in touch.