Hey, I’m Derek. In August of 2022, I will be answering God’s call and joining World Race: Gap Year. On my adventure, I will be traveling to Guatemala, South Africa, Cambodia, and Thailand. I am unbelievably stoked to have this opportunity, and that you will all be joining me.
Now for a little about me. I am 18 years old and live in Woodland Park, Colorado, which is about 30 minutes west of Colorado Springs. I have an amazing and loving family including my parents and younger brother. My family is what is at the top of my priority list (behind my heavenly father) and I am super sad to be leaving them for so long. I have an awesome group of friends and am also going to miss them. In my personal time I am an Eagle Scout, baseball player, golfer, and wrestler, as well as loving the outdoors. I am super active and outgoing, and so excited to use this to impact others.
I grew up with a Christian family with great role models all around me for how to live in a way that glorifies the Lord. While I had these resources around me, my faith was always something my family let me choose for myself. Not wanting my relationship with the Lord to be theirs or the other way around I began to explore the world and his love more and more on my own. I have been to countless summer camps and service opportunities, and know service for the Lord is my calling. I decided to commit my life to the lord and was baptized in June of 2021. I am now committed to the World Race, and am so excited for God to work in my life, and work through me in other’s lives.
Derek you will do great things! Proud of you and your family. God is faithful and no doubt you will see many people in the next year that need to see His love through you! Have a blessed year helping others!!
Derek, I wish you the best on this journey. My prayers and thoughts will be with you. Take care and God bless you.
I have fond memories of watching Amazing Race shows and Crazy Ms. Jamie food tours. I hope that all played a small part in your curiosity to travel. I couldn’t be prouder of you. PS… I’ll be visiting, LOL. I now know where I’m traveling too! Looking forward to seeing pictures and hearing about all the amazing things you are going to see and the interesting people you are going to meet. Safe travels Derek!