Your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need. // 2 Corinthians 8:14
This year’s Spring Service Partnerships sent students, faculty and staff to serve with ministries in the U.S., England, Mexico and Spain. SSP teams performed community outreach, helped with landscaping and property maintenance, tutored kids at after-school programs, led a chapel service at a prison, and aided in natural disaster recovery.
Through SSP, the efforts of a variety of ministries are encouraged, supported and helped in tangible ways. In addition, students have the opportunity to see God at work in the world, to understand their responsibility for meeting the needs of others, and to recognize their individual call to participate in the reconciling work of God's kingdom.
Your gift will be used to support future Spring Service Partnerships and the ministry partners we serve.
Baja California Sur, Mexico
Mazatlán Missions
by Karys Vande Lune '27
In partnership with Mazatlán Missions, Northwestern students served in the community of El Pescadero. They helped build a laundry room and two palapas—outdoor structures that provide shade from the sun—at a local school and the community center. The also led a two-day kids camp with games, activities and relationship-building with local students.
Saying yes
God taught me that service doesn’t have to look a certain way. Whether I was watering plants, digging holes or running around with kids, I saw that being the hands and feet of the Lord can take many forms. As a team, we learned the importance of simply showing up and saying “yes” because God takes our yes and turns it into far more than we could imagine.
Intentional living
This trip showed me the importance of intentionality. I want to be more intentional with my time—with God and with the people around me—and be more aware of how he is working in the details. Slowing down helped me notice joy, patience and meaningful connection in simple conversations, and I want to carry that mindset moving forward.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. // Psalm 51:10
Black Mountain, NC
Christmount Christian Assembly
by Lydia Erickson '26
The Black Mountain team partnered with Christmount Christian Assembly and Habitat for Humanity to assist with flood relief and rebuilding efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Students cleared trees, cut and split wood, and helped refinish bunk beds and chairs at Christmount’s camp and conference center. They also aided in the completion of a Habitat home by painting, hanging drywall and installing flooring.
Letting God lead
Being a student leader on this trip, the Lord taught me how to be patient and let him lead. I learned to take a step back, lean into him and allow him to work through me as I led the team. Through my teammates, I saw what it looks like to serve with joy and to fully appreciate where we were, who we were with, and all that God has done.
A house filled with love
The house we worked on had a very sad story: Two teenage boys who started building it for their family were killed during the hurricane. Habitat for Humanity continued the project, and the family’s strength and gratitude were remarkable. It made me think about how hard, yet comforting, it must be to live in a home built by so many loving volunteers—like living in a big hug. It reminded me of the Lord’s love, how he meets us in hardship and always has his arms wrapped around us.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners … // Isaiah 61:1
Croc, Mexico
Youthfront
by Rhea Cutler '27
In partnership with Youthfront, Northwestern students worked at an after-school program, playing, tutoring and building relationships with children in elementary and middle school. The group also painted a church and nearby apartments.
Joy in every moment
We spent time helping with homework, playing games, and just running around and laughing with so many kiddos. Many of these children have more joy than I had ever seen before, and it was clear that God is at work in their lives, even in those simple moments.
More than words
Going into the trip, I was nervous because I don’t speak much Spanish. But I quickly realized the language barrier wasn’t as big of a deal as I thought it would be. By just saying “yes” and getting a little help with translation, I was still able to make connections. From the moment we arrived, there was so much joy, and people were excited to get to know us and to share their life and culture.
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. // 1 Corinthians 10:31
David, KY
World Renew
by Daniel Minks '26
Students partnered with World Renew to provide disaster relief following a devasting 2022 storm. Teams worked on multiple homes, laying flooring, installing cabinets and toilets, repairing walls, and preparing spaces for renovation as families continued rebuilding after flooding.
Small acts
A lot of the work we did was slow and sometimes tiring, but God showed me that serving isn’t always about doing something big or flashy. Sometimes it’s just showing up, working hard and loving people through simple things like fixing a floor or helping a house feel like home again. It reminded me that even small acts of service can bring hope and encouragement.
Grateful hearts
The families we served showed so much resilience and gratitude, even after going through flooding and damage to their homes. Seeing their perspective made me realize how easy it is to take things for granted. It helped me slow down, appreciate what I have, and see serving not just as a one-time experience, but as something I should live out in my everyday life.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. // Proverbs 3:5-6
Lindale, TX
Calvary Commission
by Naomi King '29
While in Lindale, Northwestern students partnered with Calvary Commission, a Bible institute that provides biblical training to former prison inmates. Students built relationships with residents, heard and shared testimonies, participated in classes, led worship in a local prison, engaged in street evangelism, and assisted with yard work around campus.
Faithful stories
Listening to the testimonies of former inmates was one of the most impactful parts of the trip. They were eager to share how God had completely changed their lives, and that transformation was evident not only in their words but in the way they lived and served others. Hearing these stories also challenged many of us, as we sometimes felt like our own testimonies weren’t “big enough.” Throughout the week, we learned that our stories are testimonies of God’s faithfulness, and that is one of the most beautiful testimonies we can have.
Lasting joy
It was wonderful to learn from people with different experiences who were deeply devoted to Christ. Even simple tasks like pulling weeds or laying concrete felt meaningful, knowing the work was for God’s kingdom and his glory. Serving and spending time with the people at Calvary Commission was truly a joy.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. // Matthew 11:28-29
Madrid, Spain
Proyecto Da Vida (World Team)
by Lars Ingram '28
Students partnered with World Team missionaries at Proyecto Da Vida, a church plant in Madrid. They helped distribute food and clothing, cleaned and organized the center, and served in youth ministry through games, testimonies, worship and relationship-building.
Light in the darkness
God opened my eyes to the light he is shining in a spiritually dark place. Although Christianity is not very prominent in Spain, the believers there radiate God’s love with incredible courage. We didn’t go expecting to change strangers’ lives, but to support and uplift the faithful disciples already serving there. I was reminded that God is always working, even when we don’t recognize it, and that he uses our presence to strengthen others in ways we may never fully see.
Changed perspective
Seeing how boldly believers in Spain live out their faith gave me a deeper sense of peace and appreciation for the Christian community I have at Northwestern. Their courage challenged me not to take that for granted, but to be more intentional in my faith—pursuing fellowship wholeheartedly, seeking God daily and living more boldly for Christ in everyday life.
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace ... // 1 Peter 4:10
Mescalero, NM
Mescalero Reformed Church
by Naomi Johnson ’27 and Makenna Lilly '29
At Mescalero Reformed Church, Northwestern students helped with renovations, landscaping and property repairs. They also led Bible lessons and activities for the youth group and children’s ministry, in addition to learning more about life on the Apache Reservation.
Slow growth
Through this experience, God taught us to slow down and enjoy the little moments. Just like you can’t rush the growth of a flower or the formation of a sunset, you can’t rush the plans God has for your life. He works through slow, gradual processes that unfold over time. We saw how God moves in the quiet, mundane moments—through simple conversations, shared meals and small acts—and how those moments can plant seeds of faith that grow into something much bigger.
Softened hearts
Being placed in a different environment with the intention of serving others really softens your heart. It made us more grateful for what we have and inspired us to look for ways to serve the people around us. This experience reminded us we are called to serve others—here, near and far—and challenged us to reflect on whether we are demonstrating Christ’s love in our daily lives. It also reminded us that we never truly know what others may be going through, so we should approach people with more compassion and a willingness to serve.
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters … Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. // 1 John 3:16, 18
Navajo Nation, AZ
Experience Mission
by Lucy Young '26
Students partnered with Experience Mission while staying at the House of Joy church, where they helped clean and repair the building and constructed new doors. They also worked on a nearby home, assisting with wiring, insulation, drywall and other finishing projects, while experiencing life on the Navajo Reservation.
Unexpected friendships
At the start of the trip, most of us didn’t know each other, but over the 20-hour car ride and throughout the week, we bonded through conversations, shared stories and working together. By the end, we didn’t want to part ways! Through serving, sharing testimonies and experiencing new things together, the Lord brought unexpected friendships we will never forget.
The majesty of God
Throughout the trip, I was challenged to be in awe of the Lord. My reverence for him grew as I saw that he was already at work in Navajo Nation, especially through their passion in worship. Driving through some of the most beautiful terrain and looking up each night to see millions of stars reminded me of how majestic God is. It made me reflect on how good he is to think of me when I am just a speck of dust. Now that I’m back home, I’m learning to look for his creativity and goodness in people and in creation, deeper than the eyes can see.
Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. // John 13:14-15
New Orleans, LA
Urban Impact
by Olivia Anderson '29
Northwestern students traveled to New Orleans to serve with Urban Impact, a ministry dedicated to creating safe neighborhoods where kids can thrive. In addition to playing games and spending time with local kids, the team pulled weeds, stained decks and tables, and deep cleaned and painted apartments.
Instruments of impact
Experiencing the realities of poverty in the inner city challenged and expanded our perspectives on inequality. But even amid the hardship, we witnessed incredible hope, resilience and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Through daily devotions and sharing our testimonies, we were reminded of the power of faith lived out in service. The week revealed that even the simplest acts of kindness can become instruments God uses to bring encouragement, healing and lasting impact.
The power of community
Our team experienced the power of community both among ourselves and with the people we served. Shared van rides, meals and evenings together became moments for laughter, conversation and connection. Working alongside one another and the local kids reminded me that service is about more than tasks—it’s about relationships, understanding and stepping into something bigger than ourselves. By the end of the trip, bonds had deepened, hearts had been encouraged, and I left inspired by the ways God works through community and service.
Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. // Philippians 2:4
Opelousas, LA
Hope for Opelousas
by Emma Schmillen '26 and Anna Derscheid '28
Since 2008, Northwestern College has partnered with Hope for Opelousas (HFO), an after-school program that supports students’ learning and provides community outreach. This year’s team worked on refinishing a house that will host a community of interns—scraping, sanding, painting and cleaning out a garage. They also played games and read books with local youth.
Love in action
Love was so evident throughout this community. The HFO motto, “Love changes everything,” challenged us to reflect on how we show genuine love to others through our actions, our presence and the way we see people as made in God’s image. Our team poured into the students, but we received just as much love in return. It reminded us to carry that mindset home, seeing everyone as deeply loved by the Creator.
Connection through work
As we scraped, sanded and painted the house, there were many opportunities for intentional conversations with teammates, staff and even passersby. At the same time, the joy of the kids stood out to us. Even in difficult circumstances, they sought joy through connection, creativity and expression, which was both challenging and encouraging to witness.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. // Romans 12:10
Oxford, England
The Jungle
by Emma Steinhardt ’26
The Jungle is an art gallery and community outreach center that offers programs for people of all ages, including recovering addicts from a nearby rehab center. Northwestern students helped facilitate a children’s story time, conversed with older adults at teatime, and created art during The Jungle’s weekly Art Gym for adults of all skill levels. The team also interviewed program attendees to help The Jungle assess areas of need and benefits of their programs.
Growing together
As a team, we learned the importance of collaboration and growing in our faith together. Over the course of the week, we formed a strong bond and became like one big, happy family. God showed us how meaningful it is to be in community—encouraging one another and strengthening each other in our walks with him.
Deeper trust
Throughout our SSP, God taught us to have a deeper belief and trust in him, even in the midst of spiritual warfare. This experience gave us a greater awareness of the spiritual battles that exist in our lives and challenged us to rely on him more fully. While adapting to a different culture was not always easy, serving God brought us immense joy and made the experience incredibly meaningful.
The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land … You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. // Isaiah 58:11
Waco, TX
Mission Waco
by Aimee Aberson '26
Students partnered with Mission Waco, serving in several of its ministries throughout the week. They helped set up and serve at the Mission Waco Banquet, moved furniture and supplies into classrooms at an after-school program, led a VBS-style street camp, and hosted evening chapel services at a local homeless shelter.
Kingdom community
During this trip, God taught me the importance of community and relationships. Mission Waco doesn’t just provide resources for those experiencing homelessness and poverty—they intentionally build a community that reflects the kingdom of God. Seeing this challenged me to think about how relationships are at the center of meaningful service.
Being a neighbor
Through educational training and time spent with people in the community, I learned how important it is to be a neighbor to everyone. Serving those experiencing poverty starts with building relationships and trust. This experience shifted my perspective, reminding me that we are called not just to serve others, but to walk alongside them with compassion and dignity.