Renee Portal
Renee Portal is currently serving with our global(x) partner, Sowing a Vision, in Mérida, Mexico, working alongside churches, Christian institutions, and communities in need.
She graduated from the University of Georgia with bachelor's degrees in both International Affairs and Spanish. During her college years, Renee was actively involved in the UGA Wesley Foundation, which offers intentional space for students to encounter God, engage in life-giving community, and grow as disciples of Christ. She also served on the executive team of SOUL (Serving Others Unconditional Love) and volunteered with City of Refuge, where she delivered food and supplies to low-income families, shared her faith, and led a Bible study in the Hispanic community.
Serving in Mérida
As Renee built relationships with families through her volunteer work, she was deeply impacted by how her knowledge of Spanish allowed her to connect with and serve people in meaningful ways. Her heart continued to lead her toward using her gifts to serve others and share the love of Christ.
When the opportunity to serve with Sowing a Vision arose, Renee knew it was where God was calling her. Today, she ministers through Christian education as an elementary English teacher and English Program Coordinator at Blas Pascal Christian School. In addition to teaching students, she mentors fellow teachers, investing in both their professional development and spiritual growth. Through these relationships, she seeks to reflect Christ's love and make a lasting impact on the next generation.
During the summer months, Renee helps host mission teams, including our global(x) journey teams, as they serve alongside the Sowing a Vision staff, helping teams connect with the local community and support the ministry's ongoing work.
Outside the classroom, Renee and her husband, Sam, are actively involved in their local church. They participate in small groups, help lead marriage ministry events throughout the year, and Renee also leads a weekly high school girls' small group through the church's youth ministry.
Renee is grateful for the opportunity to use her gifts in education, invest in the lives of students and teachers, and serve alongside a thriving community of believers as they share the hope of Jesus throughout Mérida. If you're interested in learning more about how you can support Renee and her ministry, please visit her
Renee is excited to be able to use her talents, share her faith with the children in Mérida, and work alongside a supportive community to further the gospel. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can support Renee and her efforts, please visit her website.