At Strong Automotive, we live our core value ‘Optimize’ by embracing bold experimentation. This spirit shines in our First Four employees— Reeves Parrish, Amelia Bennett, Josie Green, and Tara Kirk – who will travel over 30 hours to volunteer in Kenya with Hope for Kenya.
Led by our good friend Philip Coltart, the team will support Joy Schools International in Ndhiwa, contributing to classroom projects and vital community efforts like drilling wells for fresh water.
Reeves is a Senior Account Coordinator, and November marks 3 years with Strong. She has been to Africa before, and was excited to share her thoughts on going back:
What was your “I’m going to do this!” rationale for answering the call?
I’ve always been drawn to learning about other cultures. This seemed like a great opportunity to not only go serve with a team doing great work in Kenya and represent Strong well, but to have my worldview expanded and build relationships with people I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet otherwise.
What do you most look forward to?
I’m most looking forward to meeting the team at Hope for Kenya and the students they serve and learning more about their stories. Learning about the experiences of others can provide new perspectives. I’m excited to be able to give my full attention to the team there and learn more about their “why” as an organization and how we at Strong can continue to be involved with their mission.
Did you ever imagine yourself doing this?
There was a time in my life where I saw myself living in another country with a ministry as an English teacher, so this experience is something near to my heart. I still have a passion for working with kids in any capacity that helps them grow to love learning and continuing their education.
Gotta ask, any fears?
Honestly, no. I’m looking forward to whatever Kenya brings! My faith is a large part of who I am and I’ve had an overwhelming peace about this trip since I submitted the interest form.
To you, Reeves, I share this most positive thought: “Inner peace is the greatest success. It makes your world a paradise.” I cannot wait to hear the stories after 12 days in Kenya.
God bless the First Four!