I grew up in a strong Christian household, deeply involved in church life. From the outside, it looked like I had it all together. But behind the smiles and service, I was quietly battling deep wounds: anxiety, eating struggles, and a profound sense of abandonment that stemmed from being adopted. Although I was aware of God, I wasn’t walking with Him. I lived off borrowed faith, leaning on others' relationships with the Lord while hiding behind a facade. My identity was rooted in how others saw me, not in how God saw me. The approval of friends, mentors, and relationships determined my worth. I was a lukewarm Christian—going through the motions, yet empty and exhausted inside. Everything changed when I attended a Christian gap year program called One Life. It was there that I finally confronted the shallowness of my faith and experienced what a real relationship with Jesus looks like. I encountered individuals who infused truth into my life, reminding me that God fully knows and loves me. I realized that I don't need to strive for anyone else's approval, as I already possess His. Through One Life, I had the opportunity to serve in Kensington, Philadelphia—a place marked by hardship but also overflowing with beauty and resilience. I worked in food distribution, assisted with church projects, and participated in local outreach efforts. In the process, God began healing parts of my heart I didn’t even realize were still broken. I no longer felt abandoned because I experienced the presence of a God who never left me. God placed a deep burden on my heart for the people of Kensington. So when the opportunity presented itself to return for a two-month internship in the summer of ‘24, I knew I had to say “yes.” Since then, my faith has grown in ways I never imagined. I’ve seen God move in powerful, intimate ways—in the community, in ministry, and in my own life. One of the verses that captures this transformation is Jonah 2:5-6: “The waters closed in over me to take my life; the deep surrounded me… Yet you brought up my life from the pit, O Lord, my God.” I started this journey lost and approval-hungry, but now I walk in the truth that my identity is in Christ alone. He is my firm foundation, my personal Savior—and He is writing a story of redemption I never could’ve imagined.
As I continue my work in Kensington, I invite you to join me on this journey:
Your prayers mean so much—covering me, our team, and the precious people we meet each day.
If God leads, your financial support helps me keep sharing His hope in fundamental, tangible ways. My annual goal is $25,000, which will cover my salary for the year.
You’re also welcome to serve alongside us, building relationships and being the hands and feet of Jesus here. If you’d like to learn more or get involved, you can connect with us through the contact form on the Productive Lives website.
I’d be grateful if you shared this page, inviting others to come alongside what God is doing in our city.
Your time, care, and willingness to consider supporting mean so much, thank you!
God Bless,
Olivia