Latham® Seeds Nears $75,000 Fundraising Goal for Cancer Research
Alexander, Iowa — With just $10,000 left to raise, Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is entering the final stretch of its Seeds of Hope campaign — which was launched in honor of the company’s 75th anniversary with a goal of raising $75,000 for the American Cancer Society. The lavender cancer ribbon symbolizes awareness and support for all types of cancer, representing unity and compassion for those affected by the disease.
This heartfelt campaign is fueled by a strong sense of purpose from the entire Latham family — including employees, dealers, customers and friends — all of whom have generously donated over the past three years to help fight a disease that impacts one in three Americans.
“This cause is incredibly personal for us,” says John Latham, manager of Latham Seeds. “Like so many others, we have walked alongside loved ones battling cancer. Although we experienced loss, we also experienced the gift of more time with our dad. That’s why we want to pay it forward.”
The inspiration for Seeds of Hope was rooted in Latham’s own family history. The late Bill Latham, second-generation leader of Latham Seeds, was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) in 2009. Following a stem cell transplant, Bill and his wife, Linda, stayed in the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Hope Lodge in Rochester, Minn., where they were surrounded with a built-in support system.
The stem cell transplant helped to extend his life by more than five years. He spent that valuable time with family, and had the opportunity to pass the business torch to his two sons.
Bill passed away 10 years ago.
The Latham family continues to support awareness, detection and prevention efforts through the Final Drive for 75 — and they’re calling on partners across Latham Country to help finish strong.
One of the most unique aspects of the campaign has been the launch of Seeds of Hope hybrids. For the 2026 planting season, the following three hybrids have been designated as Seeds of Hope hybrids:
LH 4648 SS PRO
LH 5024 VT4 PRO
LH 6226 PCE
These hybrids were specially selected to reflect the geographic diversity and trait strength of Latham’s product lineup — allowing customers across the Midwest to join the cause while planting products they already trust. The Seeds of Hope hybrids are marked with the lavender cancer ribbon. For every unit of these three hybrids sold, Latham Seeds donates $1 to the American Cancer Society.
“Every unit sold is a step closer to our $75,000 goal,” Latham adds. “It’s a symbol of how deeply we believe in growing something greater than ourselves.”
September is recognized as Blood Cancer Awareness Month, and Bill Latham was diagnosed with blood cancer in the fall. And with fall harvest just around the corner, Latham Seeds is revving up its Final Drive for 75! The company invites dealers, farmers and seed partners to help push this campaign over the finish line.
To learn more or to make a direct donation, visit: https://www.lathamseeds.com/sowing-seeds-of-hope/
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Since 1947, Latham Seeds has been committed to delivering seed products in corn, soybeans and alfalfa that are field-tested, proven on the farm and trusted by farmers. By combining localized product research, personal service and a deep passion for rural communities, Latham Seeds helps farmers maximize their yield potential — one field at a time. Learn more at www.lathamseeds.com. Latham and Latham Hi-Tech Seeds are trademarks of M.S. Technologies, L.L.C.