DANNER FARMS
MENTORING PROJECT
NEWSLETTER ONLINE - WINTER 2024/2025
. . . And Moses said, “Here I am.”
Exodus 3:4
The book of Exodus tells the incredible story of an ordinary man doing extraordinary things. Moses was called by God to confront Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. When Moses expressed his fears and insecurity about his ability to accomplish the seemingly impossible mission against Pharaoh, God’s response to Moses was: “I will be with you.” Wow. The God of the Universe vowed to be with him every step of the way. God called. Moses answered. God promised. Mission accomplished.
Danner Farms exists today because of the men and women who answered God’s call to serve. He brought us just the right people when we needed them most. From the early planning meetings many years ago, to the addition of our most recent mentor, God has truly been with us every step of the way. We want to tell you just a little about one of God’s faithful servants who answered His call and became an integral part of the Danner Farms Family.
Born and raised in Montana, this retired business man has long served his large family, church, and community here in Walla Walla Valley. An active Board Member, he is one of the original planners of the Danner Farms Mentoring Project. His wisdom and sage advice have helped us keep our feet on the ground and our eyes on the Lord. Always the first to volunteer, he has been involved with every phase of the program. Most recently, he has embraced the role of part-time mentor and honorary “Grandpa” to our newest mentee. When he learned that the boy and his family live close to his church, he and his equally dedicated wife began to pick up that boy AND his siblings every Wednesday and Sunday so that they are able to attend services. Titus 2:7-8 reads:
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show
integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned . . . .
He may not yet understand it, but our bright young mentee is watching and paying close attention to the Godly example being set for him by this kind and caring husband-and-wife team. We know that one day Gordy and Lynne Smith will hear Jesus say:
Indeed, God has blessed Danner Farms with incredible leadership and mentors. Just as He promised Moses that He would be with him, our mentors are dedicated to “being there” for our boys. Of course, these men can’t be with them 24/7, but they can rely on our God as they build that vital one-on-one relationship with their mentees. We are thankful for these men and their supportive wives:
Bruce & Reta (Washam) Crittenden, Kevin & Sarah Griffith, Mike & Linda Keeley, Gary & Cindy Key, Greg & Shareen Knowles, Danny & Kathy Lonai, Rick & Tracey Rambo, Kurt & Linda Reiber, Kevin & Jennifer Riley. We are beyond grateful that they stepped forward to say “Here I am.”
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
