Josh graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Biomedical Engineering. He is married to Erin and they have two daughters, Elise (3) and Caitlyn (2). Josh is currently employed by Biomet Orthopedics where he is an Oncology and Limb Salvage Development Engineer. Before they had children, Josh and Erin developed a huge heart for missions after traveling around the world and serving local missionaries in 16 developing countries in Asia and Africa. During their trip they felt a leading to work and invest in orthopedics which resulted in moving to Warsaw, Indiana, “The Orthopedic Capital of the World” in 2009.
Josh has been involved in 2nd Mile Missions for 3 years and has seen firsthand the what God has been doing in the Dominican Republic. His heart for missions, adventure and God has been a huge encouragement to the ongoing ministry of 2nd Mile Missions.
Sue is the Children’s Ministry Director of Warsaw Community Church in Warsaw, Indiana. She is married to Dave and they have two daughters, Nicole (16) and Alexis (13). Sue has a passion for teaching kids about God and has been leader in the children’s programming for all the mission trips to the DR for the past 5 years.
Sue says: “I serve with 2nd Mile Missions because I truly believe God has called me to help reach children for Christ. To help them understand that they do have a hope and a future in Jesus Christ. God has a purpose and a plan for them. The children we get to work with in the Dominican Republic are discovering the love God has for them. Poverty does not have to consume their lives. God is being victorious on their behalf and He will use these young warriors in mighty ways!”
Jim has been an vital part of 2nd Mile Missions and 2nd Mile Adventures for over 8 years. Jim’s love for outdoor adventures such as biking and hiking led him first to 2nd Mile Adventures where he has participated in many of the ministry events.
From the beginning of 2nd Mile Missions, Jim was asked to share his gift of business administration to keep the ministry on track. Jim believes that being involved in 2nd Mile Missions is a great way to see and to demonstrate tangible manifestations of faith.
Currently, Jim is a Plant Controller at Living Essentials. He received his BS in business administration from Grace College in Winona Lake, IN. He is married to Lee Ann and they have four children, Lauren, Rachel, Nathaniel and Aaron.
In 2005 God specifically told Rod to quit his job and begin full time ministry in the Dominican Republic. Prior to this calling, Rod taught History and Physical Education in the public schools for 20 years and also founded 2nd Mile Adventures with his brother, Brent. Rod’s wife and three kids were very supportive of this decision knowing how passionate Rod has always been about missions. He and his wife Nancy now both work full time in the ministry and enjoy every minute. They have three kids, Amy (20), Kelly (17), and Matt(14).
There is a unique partnership between Rod and the pastor in the Dominican Republic and a special friendship has developed among the two. Both lead the ministry from their respective place of residence. Pastor Pascual Borrell has a vision for his church which includes conquering the entire town of Bavaro for Christ. Rod and Pascual have led the vision to provide the basic essentials of education and healthy meals to children in the community. Their ultimate goal is to reach not only the kids for Christ, but also their families.
Rod spends 8-10 weeks in Bavaro and leads 4-5 mission trips a year. He spends much of his time at home networking with individuals and businesses to expand the resources for the ministry in the Dominican Republic. He finds it both a challenge and a blessing to be in the middle of God’s work in 2nd Mile Missions.