Dear Friends,
As we reflect on the journey God has led us on, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for each of you who have partnered with us these past 18 years. Your prayers, encouragement, and financial support have been a constant reminder that we are not serving alone. And because of your generosity, we have been able to follow God’s calling and invest in the lives of our students and staff at IBC. Thank you.
Today, we are excited to share an opportunity that we believe is the next step in that calling. This summer, I (Sarah) began graduate studies at Colorado Christian University, pursuing an online master’s degree in counseling. This will better equip me and IBC to serve the needs of our Indigenous students and their communities. This is not simply an academic pursuit – through this program, I will deepen my understanding of trauma and develop practical skills that will strengthen my ability to teach, disciple, and serve at IBC for years to come. For the past 12 years, I have been leading our Mending the Soul program. This was established to help our students address the major issues of abuse that are unfortunately so prevalent in Indigenous culture. There is currently no one on staff who has a completed degree in counseling (though some faculty come in for short bursts of time). With the overwhelming trauma that most of our students have experienced, it is vital that we make this investment in order to better meet their needs.
As with any educational endeavor, there are significant expenses involved. How we wish other schools offered the same costs and financial support that IBC offers their students—but alas! So we are reaching out to those who have faithfully walked alongside us to ask if you would consider partnering with us in this new journey. If God leads you to give, your support will directly help make this educational opportunity possible. The estimated total cost of the 2 year program, which includes three summer (in-person) residencies, is roughly $45,000. You can give toward my education costs through the President’s Ministry Fund (PMF). Online donations can be made here (please select President’s Ministry Fund from the drop-down menu and write “Sarah’s masters program” in the comment box.) Check donations made payable to IBC and mailed to PO Box 30880, Flagstaff AZ 86003-0880 should include a note “PMF Sarah’s masters program” in the memo field.
More than financial support, we also ask for your prayers. Please pray that God would grant wisdom as I study, perseverance through the demands of working and raising teens, all while attending graduate school, and that everything I learn would ultimately bring glory to Him and bless those we serve.
We look forward to sharing what God does through this next season. If you have any questions about the program or would like to learn more about how you can partner with us, I would love to visit with you.
With Gratitude,
Sarah and Jason Koppen
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