FAQs

This time around people have been asking me a lot of questions, which is really good for them because they don't go around still wondering what in the world I do…but bad for me because  that means I haven't explained very well! So for all of you curious friends, here are some answers! And please, keep asking!

what do you do in bolivia?
Well, that's a really good question! I do a lot of different things, but what it boils down to is this: I serve underprivileged youth in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia. Whether it's helping with math homework at a shelter for abused adolescent girls, playing tag with kids on a Saturday kids club in the outskirts of the city, or teaching ESL classes to college kids who want to learn english but can't commit time wise or financially, or teaching a Bible study to catholic girls who just want to know more about Jesus, my goal is to bring HOPE to young people who are looking for love in all the wrong places. We know that there's no hope in government offices, university classes, money, fame, or even other people. Hope is only found in our savior Jesus Christ. 
who pays you?
I say that God pays me…it sounds a little silly, but it's really true. He owns everything and as he prompts His people they send money and that's how I live, eat, get to and from the city, and buy what I need.  If you have felt led to give, you can go here
where do you live?
I liven the city of Cochabamba Bolivia. It's a city of over 600,000 people surrounded by beautiful Andes mountains. 
what happens if you get sick?
We live in a city with many hospitals and clinics. It is not quite as advanced in many ways as what you will probably find in the USA, but so far it's seemed to be ok.
what language do they speak in bolivia?
Spanish is the main language, but there are about 36 different languages spoken in Bolivia. 
do you speak spanish?
Yes! It was my major in University, and the Lord has kindly given me many opportunities to practice and learn more. 
do you feel safe there?
I generally feel very safe in Cochabamba. I stay pretty alert to what is going on around me and try to avoid situations that seem sketchy. My biggest problems have been petty theft and one assault at gunpoint. But so far the only losses suffered have been possessions…and one small scar. 
are you supported by a local church?
I receive love offerings periodically from several groups of believers in Ohio and Texas. My home church is Camden Baptist Church in Wellington, Ohio. Most of my support comes from individuals, though. 
are people open to the gospel?
I would say most people I've encountered are fairly open to the Gospel, however most hostility to the Gospel (in Bolivia) is in the more rural areas where unbelievers resent new Christians' refusal to partake in community sacrifices and rituals to spirits. 
how do you get around?
I mostly walk. If I need to go far, I use public transportation. It costs about $.30 to take a bus around town or to surrounding communities. Even a taxi costs less than $4 for most places. 
if i came for a visit would there be things to do?
Definitely always lots of work to be done!  Let me know if that's something you feel the Lord calling you to do. Especially a great idea for supporters, or representatives from supporting churches, or for people considering serving the Lord in overseas missions. :) 
is it cheap to live in bolivia?
Yes…but sometimes not. Most services are cheaper, and fresh produce. All imported good, electronics and most processed things are much more expensive. (Think $5 for a small jar of peanut butter, $7 for a box of cereal, etc.). 

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