13 Years of GRACE: How It All Began

This October marks 13 years of GRACE. As we celebrate this milestone, I wanted to share a story that shaped the heart of our organization and the vision that has carried us forward. Dr. Jon’s first-hand experience put flesh and blood on what had once seemed like a distant problem, and it became the seed that grew into GRACE.

Here, in his own words, is where it all began:

Dr. Jon’s Story

The GRACE organization began in the early 2000’s as I served in local churches and witnessed some of the most vulnerable among us being exploited to the benefit of others. In my circle, there was nothing being done to address the problem of exploitation. Granted, it is dirty work and far from the stained-glass cathedrals from which most Christians are more comfortable.

That experience was enhanced as my travels became more extensive. I saw exploitation in several cultures and in varying contexts. One of those destinations was Peru. In a small village in the Andes mountains I was accused of being a trafficker. I was sharing with some teenagers in the village about a youth event taking place that weekend. In the midst of our conversation, a mother came running out of her house crying and shouting. Her tears and words were directed at me. She was telling the teens to stay away from me as I had plans of taking them back to America to sell them.

The fear and terror in the eyes of that mother humanized trafficking for me. For some time I had heard news of trafficking rings and arrests being made in various parts of the world. Until then, to me, trafficking was something that happened in another place. Trafficking was more theoretical than reality—until I looked into the eyes of that distraught mother and began to see the impact the problem has on families.

October 2012 proved to be a pivotal year as the Global Relief Association for Crises & Emergencies was incorporated in the state of Georgia, USA. Today, our home office is based in Millen, Georgia, and the work was started in Thailand. Today, we have a Family Resource Center operating in Pattaya, Thailand. We have had over 200 children come through the sponsorship program, many of which still stand in need of a sponsor. The future is bright and the vision is clear to take this work deeper into Thailand and also globally. There is no limit.

Looking Ahead

What began with one moment of fear and truth has grown into 13 years of serving children and families, building hope, and working to end exploitation.

This October, we’re celebrating that journey—and we’re inviting you to join us in writing the next chapter. Our anniversary goal is to raise $13,000 in honor of 13 years of GRACE. Every gift, whether $13, $130, or $1,300, helps us expand the work!

👉 Ways to Give

• Through our secure donation page: https://donate.infinitegiving.com/grace-inc

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/donate/1503469847351115/

• Mail: Checks can be made out to GRACE and sent to PO Box 677, Millen, Ga 30442

Here’s to the next 13 years—and beyond. 💛