VisionWay Christian School’s annual Missions Week ended on an extraordinary note, with students, teachers, and families coming together to surpass donation goals and support a local ministry in a significant way. The school’s original target of $500 was quickly reached. Thanks to widespread community support and an anonymous matching gift, the final amount raised for Refuge Ranch was brought to an impressive $2,400.

The week was packed with events aimed at engaging students in the importance of service and introducing them to Refuge Ranch, a local ministry that works to support people and animals in need. A key highlight was a Missions Week Chapel event where students learned about Refuge Ranch’s mission firsthand. Refuge Ranch co-owner Steve Daniels visited with a miniature horse and two goats, bringing an interactive element that allowed students to connect with the animals. Refuge Ranch board member Garrett LeVault also led the students in worship, sharing songs that reinforced the importance of service and compassion.

Through a mix of educational activities and direct giving, students were encouraged to think about what it means to serve others. Within three days, they had already raised $800—a remarkable achievement that only continued to grow. As the week drew to a close, the total reached $1,400. An anonymous donor generously agreed to match cash donations, bringing the grand total to $2,400.

But Missions Week wasn’t only about fundraising; it also included a hands-on learning experience. The school’s 4th grade class took a field trip to Refuge Ranch, where they had the opportunity to volunteer and assist in various tasks around the ranch. Many students shared positive reflections from their visit:

• Nora Sharp commented, “During Missions Week, I learned that Refuge Ranch is a place that helps people and horses.”

• Jaxen Daley added with enthusiasm, “My favorite part of the trip was scooping poop.”

• Izzy Daniels shared, “My favorite part was interacting with the horses.”

• Emy Copeland said, “I had fun helping Refuge Ranch and getting to do this with my friends.”

Kailey LeVault, the fourth-grade teacher at VisionWay, also reflected on the significance of this year’s Missions Week. “In my six years at VisionWay, I haven’t seen even close to this much money raised during Missions Week,” she noted. “We set what we believed to be a lofty goal of $500, and we more than exceeded that. I think it’s important that students and families see the emphasis we put on missions and service, because that example is set for us in the Bible.”

Missions Week 2024 left a profound impact on VisionWay’s community, highlighting both the power of giving and the importance of teaching young people the value of service. With Refuge Ranch as a focal point, students not only raised funds, but also experienced the joy and responsibility of helping others. VisionWay Christian School is grateful for Refuge Ranch’s involvement and the generosity of all those who helped make this week a remarkable success.