Former RMC youth director Steve Hamilton and his former assistant Joanna Rivera reunited in Chico, California, last November when Rivera joined a group of Andrews University alumni and students traveling to the Chico/Paradise area to help after the devastating fire. Organized by Andrews University campus ministries, the group provided grief counseling for those impacted.
“Who would’ve thought that seven years after Joanna worked at summer camp with us, she would be a professional in her field and come care for the people of Paradise in the emotional and spiritual way they need?” Hamilton remarked. Not only was she able to do that as a professional social worker, but as a personal friend of the Hamiltons. “At a time when my kids needed someone close to talk to, she came into their lives and re-engaged with them—not just in a personal church family way, but in a professional, caregiving role,” added Hamilton.
Rivera isn’t the only person connected to RMC who has supported the people of Paradise. Kiefer Dooley, new youth director, and Pastor Brian Simmons, recently drove a donated truck from Westminster, Colorado, to the Paradise area.
“When Kiefer and Brian came from Colorado with the donated truck, I could feel the strength rise from my heart,” Hamilton recalled. “I can feel the love and strength in a physical way from our friends and family. We are so thankful for the support we’ve received from the Rocky Mountain Conference.”
