What you love most about serving with Emiliani?

What I love most about serving with Emiliani is time slows down during a mission trip. I, like many others, have a lot going on in our lives. Between work and our families, there is never a dull moment. Serving with Emiliani always brings life’s priorities back in focus. Everytime I travel to volunteer at the orphanage, I always think. “This is the best thing I could be doing with my time.” The work we do at Emiliani really does change lives and gives these children an excellent opportunity to be successful in life by teaching them essential skills in a safe, healthy, faith based environment.

An interesting fact about yourself?

Colombia holds a special place in my heart. The first time I came to Colombia was over 15 years ago with my wife Katie and our oldest son Tommy to visit her family. Having family in Colombia always makes it a special experience for our family and we continue to return to Colombia with our family of 5 children often. Colombia is our second home and so is the Emiliani project. Our oldest son Tommy traveled to Caldas with a group of other Boy Scouts from his local Boy Scout Troop to complete his Eagle Scout Project where he built a large pergola. It is fulfilling to see the pergola being used by the children as an activity center, outdoor dining facility or just a serene location to take in the beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Our second oldest son Johnny is now planning his Eagle Scout Project at Emiliani in the near future. To me there is nothing more satisfying than traveling to a location you love with your family and providing service for others. The Emiliani project has a special place in my family’s hearts and by traveling to serve others with us at Emiliani, these children in need will find their way into your heart as well.