Joel - Wow where do I start? I’ve had the privilege of growing up in a loving and Christ centered home. At a young age, my family introduced me to the faith but it wasn’t until early in High School that I realized I had choices to make. I could choose to serve God or I could choose to serve self. Although it’s an everyday process, my desire was, and still is, to become a disciple of Christ.
Next to salvation, my second “Great Awakening” happened during my freshmen year of college. Through many circumstances, I realized God desired for me to serve Him through urban ministry. I began to fuel this new passion by immersing myself in the books and conferences of ministry leaders and theologians. Now, I’m doing it. I have the privilege of living and working in the city. Youth work definitely is not always easy. I often see such a dark side of our human nature. But youth work is also exciting. My job is definitely not boring and it’s exciting seeing youth make both small and big changes.
The greatest blessing God gave me is a companion. My wife, Jackie, is my best friend, the person I trust the most, my hero, and my love. I’m so grateful to be on this journey God has me on and I am equally as grateful to be on it with my wife and son, Justus.
Jackie - I’ve always wondered about these “about us” sections. Where do I begin? After many, many hours of labor my mother finally pushed me out into the world…No, that’s too early. But do I pick up on my life now, and leave out the many people who have shaped me into the woman I am today. Truly there’s not really a great choice. So, I’ll do my best…
I grew up in a military family, the daughter of two soldiers, sister of 5 siblings (Isaiah, Kelly, David, Amy and Michael). I have lived all around the world, never in one place for more than 3 years. All of this has contributed to my love of cultures, traveling, and funky foods. After graduating from high school in semi-rural Alabama I went to Cedarville University in very-rural Ohio. It was there that God really began to grow me into a woman whose faith was her own. I began to develop a love for the city and for those marginalized by society. Throughout this journey of deepening my walk with the Lord it seemed there was always someone there by my side, challenging me to think critically, to dream bigger. This man is now my husband and my best friend.
Which brings me to where I am now…
Currently, I am working as professional counselor at Youth Crossroads where I am able to be there for teens and their families during times of great need. I love my job and my coworkers; we do good work at Youth Crossroads, both directly in the lives of our clients but also in advocating on behalf of youth and their families out in the community. It really is my dream job!
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with Joel and Justus. We love exploring Chicago: finding funky places to eat, trying new things (like a crepe making class), and taking advantage of all the free things this city has to offer. I also like curling up with a good book and a cup of Chai at Starbucks.
Justus- I was born on March 25, 2012 weighing in at 8lbs and 3oz and measuring 22inches. Since then life consists of eating, sleeping and looking cute. It really is quite exhausting work being this adorable, so I try to sleep for long periods of the day which my parents seem quite enthralled by. In my short little life, I have had the privilege of meeting lots of amazing people, as many of mom and dad’s family and friends have traveled great distances to meet me. I must say life is pretty awesome!