Our Story

We met while serving with a community development organization in Vara Blanca, Costa Rica. Justin arrived in August 2019 to lead study abroad classes. Katie arrived in November 2019 to organize environmental and Christian stewardship. Though there was a spark right from the start, we got to know each other well during team meetings and Bible studies and gradually fell in love. While COVID terminated our service in Costa Rica earlier than planned, we stayed together with the support of our families and eventually moved to Worcester, Massachusetts for Katie to attend graduate school. We still happily call Worcester home! Other facts about us: Justin grew up in Lake Jackson, Texas. He studied computer science and engineering, anthropology, history, and education at University of Texas Arlington, and served in the Peace Corps for three years in Madagascar. He currently works for JVS, a nonprofit that helps refugees find jobs and successfully start their new lives in the U.S. During cocktail hour, ask Justin about his experience brewing beer and running a travel blog while backpacking through Southeast Asia! Katie grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. She studied environmental and marine science at University of Delaware and Clark University. She currently works for the City of Worcester managing its recreational lakes and ponds, and loves working with local volunteers and community groups. Ask Katie about her love for hiking, gardening, and baking while playing corn hole!