MEET ABIGAIL VANDERMEER: after her eyes were opened at a very young age to the needs of others around the world, she felt the urge to go and learned that He has great plans for us.

What made you want to go to Kenya?

I have always felt a desire to serve others. When I was nine years old my parents began the process of adoption, and it was then that I learned about the millions of children worldwide without families. It was ultimately that realization that lead me to overseas missions. Africa had always been an interest of mine, so when I was sixteen and found out I was eligible to participate on a mission trip to Kenya with CIY Engage, I knew I couldn't pass it up!

While there you and your team did home visits in several local slums. What are you takeaways from that experience?

Doing home visits in the slums really opened my eyes to just how broken our world actually is. My team and I heard story after story about heartbreak, hardships, and injustices. However, it was really incredible to see the people we met with relying on God for their daily needs. It really opened my eyes to the fact that even though the world is broken, God is still in control and is using even the most painful parts of our stores for good.

How did working with single moms and widows in Kenya impact your view on family?

The women that I met in Kenya were so strong and beautiful, and they worked very diligently to be able to provide for their families. It helped me to appreciate my own family and the sacrifices my parents have made for my siblings and I.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to serve but isn’t sure where to begin?

Pray and let God lead you. There are so many different ways that God can use you to build His kingdom. Keep an open heart and mind and do not be afraid of anything God may be asking you to do. His plans for us are great and you never know in what ways He is going to use you to glorify Him!

What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about living in poverty?

A lot of the people that I have met who are living in poverty have such greater faith in God than someone who doesn't live in poverty. They rely on God to provide for them so their faith is so much greater than someone who doesn't necessarily have to rely on God for food and water every day. Because of this faith they are very joyful despite their circumstances as they trust that God will deliver them.