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Board Members
Co-Founders
Christina Garcia &
John Joseph
From a young age, Christina dreamed of visiting Africa, and in 2015, she fulfilled that dream when she traveled to Uganda. The remote village of Nakaseeta captured her heart, and it was there that she felt an instant connection and witnessed the harsh realities of poverty and malnutrition.
Alongside her brother, John Joseph, Hope Restored Christian Ministries was co-founded—a nonprofit ministry dedicated to creating strong families and strong communities in Nakaseeta, Uganda.
As a registered nurse, Christina was so deeply moved by the needs she observed in Uganda that she was prompted to enroll in a Master of Public Health program, where she earned her degree.
Her commitment to service also shines through in her volunteer work, whether it's making pancakes with the Yelm Lions Club at their annual Christmas Store or cooking tortellini soup for friends in need.
A mom of two adult children, Christina resides in Yelm, Washington, with her husband, Pedro, and cherishes her time spent with family. Notably, "My son Brandon has traveled to Uganda with me twice so far, sharing in the incredible experience of connecting with its people."
Board Member
Secretary
Sara Henson
Sara officially joined Hope Restored in 2020, but has been a part of the ministry since before its inception in 2018. She and Christy traveled to Uganda several years earlier, where she met John Joseph and began dreaming about improving the lives of the people of Uganda.
She has a degree in International Community Development from Northwest University, where the idea of “co-powerment” was discussed: The belief that each party brings their own power to the table to collaborate and be agents of change.
"One of the greatest traits of Hope Restored Christian Ministries is that the people leading the work in Uganda live with and among the people they and we are serving. We get to partner with work that is directly impacting and building the local community."
Sara currently lives in Nashville, TN, and works in finance for a drug research company. "I enjoy traveling and learning about cultures and people."
Board Member
Susie Olson
"It’s been a joy to be a part of Hope Restored Christian Ministries for the past several years. I began ‘just joining in’ because my husband, Craig, was very involved—fundraising and supporting the work in Nakaseeta, Uganda."
Several years ago, Susie was asked to join the board as a member ‘At-Large’—and again, as she was already helping with some of the fundraisers and participating in the board meetings, she said "Why not?"
But really, it is more about the "Why yes!" Yes to helping children and families build a sustainable life in rural Uganda. Yes to education and a hand up. Yes to medical facilities, housing, nutrition, and clean water.
She loves that we are partnering with local Ugandans who are making the decisions on the ground about what is truly needed—"We just get to be alongside them, the hands and feet of Jesus, here in America."
Susie and Craig live in Spanaway, WA—about 15 miles southeast of Tacoma. She is just beginning her empty-nesting years, with two adult daughters and a new grandson. She works as a bookkeeper for a local CPA firm and enjoys serving in her church.
She also loves being outside—working in her garden or going for a walk in the neighborhood or around Pierce County. "I also enjoy quilting, crafting, and reading!”
Board Member
Craig Olson
Craig joined the board of Hope Restored in around 2018 and is married to fellow Board Member Susie. Craig’s main involvement in this ministry has been focused on the annual fundraiser, which started in various ways—including a 5K run in downtown Yelm—and has now become a meal and auction event. He and his wife also sponsor children and have enjoyed watching them grow and learn.
Gardening is a passion for Craig, and he has an acre to grow things on. He also has a special relationship with Raymond, the Program Manager for Hope Restored, who farms on a much larger scale. They exchange gardening updates—rain, sun, frost (U.S. side only!)—and share the fruits of what has been growing.
When Craig isn’t running the painting company he started in 2002, he is usually out walking his dog, Cooper, or making jerky and other meat treats on his big smoker.
"It has truly been a wondrous thing to follow the progress of this school—initiated by the Uganda board—from pouring concrete floors in the original schoolhouse, to finalizing the construction of the school's dormitory, the 4-acre demonstration farm, the medical clinic, and the poultry operation, to name a few. It is very motivating for me as a supporter to see so many projects take place and the blessings that follow."
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Board Member
Mildred Henson
November 1st, 1963 - March 29th, 2025
Mildred had a genuine passion for serving her community and was actively involved in the Yelm Lions Club. For many years, she served as the vendor chair for Yelm Prairie Days, playing a key role in organizing this annual event for the community.
Mildred was also a founding member of Hope Restored Christian Ministries and had the opportunity to travel to Uganda on two separate occasions, where she developed a deep love for the family she sponsored.
Mildred’s pride and joy were her family. She loved sharing pictures of her grandchildren and great-grandson, often expressing how proud she was of every one of them.
She truly was a shining light to everyone who had the honor of knowing her. Mildred will be remembered for her ability to make those around her feel comfortable and welcome. She exemplified the love of Christ, whom she cherished deeply.
Board Member
Web Site Designer
Phillip Brower
Nearly three years ago, Phillip was blessed to become involved with Hope Restored Christian Ministries through his best friend, Christy Garcia. Sponsoring children in Nakaseeta, Uganda, and building relationships through letters has become one of his greatest joys.
In addition to sponsorship, Phillip serves on the board, built and maintains the organization’s website, assists with fundraising throughout the year, and has participated in mission trips—each one strengthening his faith and deepening his commitment to this work.
He is a proud father to a 19-year-old daughter and has worked as a Physical Therapist Assistant for 24 years, helping people recover and regain strength. Phillip also volunteers locally, supporting community events and causes close to home. In his free time, he enjoys exploring nature and spending time outdoors.
"Serving others—both locally and globally—is a calling I cherish, and am grateful to be part of a mission that reflects Christ’s love in action."
Board Member
Treasurer
Alisha Hurlbert
"I have had the honor of serving as Treasurer on the board of Hope Restored Christian Ministries for the past four years. In this role, I oversee financial operations, assist with fundraising efforts throughout the year, and contribute to the décor of our annual fundraiser. I also support the team wherever needed."
With over 15 years of experience in accounting and banking, Alisha brings a strong financial background to the ministry. "I have always felt a deep calling to serve in Africa, and when this opportunity arose, I knew it was God's way of calling on me and opening a door to serve meaningfully."
"Missions have been a cornerstone of my life since childhood. My family took part in multiple home-building mission trips to Mexico, and my aunt and uncle served as missionaries in Mongolia for twelve years."
I have been married for 10 years and am the proud parent of a wonderful seven-year-old son. In my free time, I enjoy running in local and Run Disney events, camping, boating, gardening, and spending time with family.
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