As part of the Unity 4 Orphans team, Kristen has a variety of responsibilities, but her main focus is overseeing the clothing donations that come in. She’s also the point person for contacting potential volunteers from The Rock Church, helping them get plugged into U4O and serving as a liaison between the two, as well as helping with volunteer appreciation efforts.
Kristen averages 2-5 hours per week and the biggest challenge she’s faced so far was during COVID, when mission trips to the orphanages were put on hold. During that time, the team was unable to get clothing donations to the children. The blessings of her role include chatting with potential volunteers and putting together “Thank You” packages for U4O’s supporters.
“It’’ pretty special knowing that these children feel loved and cared for by the team.”
She and her husband have been married for ten years, have two daughters, and a big dog. Their oldest daughter just completed her first year of college, and their youngest is in elementary school. Kristen loves to go horseback riding, cook (and eat!), and she loves a good podcast or book. She’s passionate about health, fitness, and staying active.
The most fulfilling thing about being part of the U4O team is knowing that she’s part of an organization that makes the lives of the children at the orphanages a little more joyful and brighter. She says it’s pretty special knowing that these children feel loved and cared for by the team.
For those considering getting more involved with U4O, Kristen says, “Don’t overthink it and just jump in! The children will be blessed to have you as part of their lives, and each of us has gifts to offer.” She recently read a quote that spoke to her: “To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)
