It was September 2011 when I first went to the Dominican Republic and Haiti with Hispaniola Mountain Ministries (HMM). I immediately fell in love with the two countries, their cultures and the work that was being done there. Shortly after, I was invited to serve on the HMM Board and within less than a year, I had resigned from my job to begin raising financial support so I could work full-time on HMM’s staff. In March 2014, the founder of HMM was diagnosed with a terminal brain disease, and I was appointed as Executive Director of HMM. So, to say that one trip to Hispaniola island in 2011 would drastically alter the course I thought my life would be going is an understatement. But, with all the challenges of leaving my secure job to raise support for my family, with all the insecurities of leading in a position I was not trained for, and with all the heartache of Tim (founder of HMM) dying with little to no time to say goodbye, I am very thankful for where I am; I LOVE doing what I do.
This year (2015) has been an amazing year for HMM! I am thankful for all the partnerships we have with churches and other organizations across the U.S. In the last 12 months, over 9,000 meals have been served to individuals through the schools and churches we serve with, more than 3,000 bags of rice and beans have been distributed to families in need, our medical and dental clinics have served 800 plus adults and children, churches and homes have been built, several families have new concrete floors, three new water wells have been provided for communities in need of clean water and so much more.
The greatest thing that has happened through the ministry of HMM is that the Good News of who Jesus Christ is and what He has done for each individual on planet Earth has been shared with thousands through our baseball camps, children’s Bible clubs and church services. As a result, many individuals have made a decision to believe in Christ and believe Christ for who He says He is – God, Rescuer and Leader of Life.
HMM is a Christian-based, Christ-centered organization. Our desire to see people of all nations come to a life-changing relationship in Christ, come alive in that relationship and become true followers (disciples) of Jesus Christ. Because of our love for Him and our love for His people, we want to share the Hope that He gives and show mercy and love to others by providing clean water, medical assistance, food to hungry and friendship/acceptance to those who are hurting.
I am very grateful for what I get to be a part of every day. I am very thankful for Barco’s and others who join us on this journey of mercy and hope. I am very humbled by what I see God doing and believe 2016 will be even greater. There is still more to come.
