This may be a very small offering given the magnitude of their impact in my own life (and the lives of many others), but I would like to share by name some of my heroes. These people have given up the comfort of the familiar to become ambassadors of Christ to those who have been abused, ignored, forgotten, and left voiceless. I have the privilege of calling each of these people my friend, and I trust the work they are doing. Perhaps we may not be in a season to go ourselves, but we can play a part by supporting those who are. I invite you to know them by name. (Please read my next post, entitled By Name, to better understand what a blessing that is.)
Ashlee Massengale is currently working in Thailand to care for street children living in poverty and daily at risk of sex trafficking, abuse, and crime. She helps operate drop-in centers that provide education, food, care, training, and advocacy. You can learn more about her and her sending organization Compasio at:
http://www.siamashlee.com/.
JD & Kacy Neinast are living in Danli, Honduras, working as teachers at a local school. Recently, God has given them a vision to build an orphanage. Though the plan is still in its infancy, they hope to take in unwanted boys perceived as having “too many issues” to care for. You can read more about their life and calling at:
http://kacy-elizabeth.xanga.com/.
Bob & Julie Mendonsa are serving in Kenya, where Bob provides medical care for children and Julie teaches at a school. Their family has endeavored to build Naomi’s Village—a home for children orphaned and abandoned following recent political conflict. Many of these children currently live in tents on the side of the road. You can read more about their journey at:
http://www.mendonsamissions.com/.
You don’t have to move overseas to become a voice. My friends Ty & Mande Clark have started Veritas, an art fashion company that promotes community. In an industry where “name” is everything, they selflessly promote other artists and global causes. In response, they have been gifted with unique opportunities to touch the lives of those who have been outcast, whether home or abroad. You can see more of their work and passion at:
http://www.liveveritas.com/.
Time and space doesn’t allow for me to fully detail the work of other heroes like Shane & Allyson Smith in Ethiopia:
(http://www.smithsinethiopia.com/)
or Jason & Tess Clarke in DFW:
(http://www.freecityinternational.org/).
But believe me when I say—it is worth your time to read about each of their life’s work, as they give of themselves to reach others.
