Each year, over a hundred people come to Missionary Acres to help us serve the Lord. We believe that God wants us to give “double honor” to those who have served Him in career ministry (1 Timothy 5:17). Honoring them is helping them when they need it. As pastors and missionaries and those who have been in career ministry, affordable housing can be a big challenge in retirement. Missionary Acres, along with our financial and volunteer partners, seeks to make a real difference for them. Volunteers allow us to provide affordable housing to them! We can’t do this without people like you.
VOLUNTEER PACKET
Click on the button below to look over a packet of information regarding volunteering. This is a summary of the important things you will want to know.
We’d love to have your help! Register your skills with us by clicking the button below. You are not committing to anything. This is our way of knowing who is out there and what can they do. In the future we will notify you about specific opportunities that match up with your skills and abilities to see if you can help.
After retiring in 2021, Steve and Kathy Owens moved to Minnesota to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Steve spent most of his career in the timber industry in Washington State, while Kathy served for 29 years in kidney dialysis clinics.
Kathy had long desired to participate in a short-term mission trip. Following their church’s missions conference in October 2025, they began considering service at Missionary Acres. Steve initially hesitated, unsure how he could contribute without carpentry skills. However, after a conversation with Ron and Joy Hemsworth, he realized his experience with a chainsaw could meet a real need on the property. Remembering the message, “What’s That in Your Hand?” he recognized that God could use what he already had.
Their recent visit to Missionary Acres proved to be a tremendous blessing. They witnessed firsthand the encouragement Missionary Acres provides to retired pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers. During this week they served with the staff to drop and clean up 22 old and dying trees.
They saw both the current needs and future possibilities of the ministry. They encourage others to consider how God might use their own skills, whether through hands-on service or financial support. They were also impressed by the community, peaceful setting, and opportunities for continued ministry. Lord willing, they plan to return for another visit next year.
