Meet Shelby

Hi! I’m Shelby Potter, I’m 20 years old, and I’m following the Lord’s calling into missions! This October, I’ll be moving to the Philippines for one year to volunteer with an organization called Kids International Ministries (KIMS).

This past year, I participated in a nine-month missions program through a U.S. organization called the World Race. We traveled to Colombia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and South Africa, spending about two months in each country. I loved every country, but the Philippines was by far my favorite! The people are incredibly loving, welcoming, and selfless. If you’d like to read more about my previous nine-month trip, you can visit my World Race blog here: shelbypotter.theworldrace.org

While in the Philippines, my team had the opportunity to serve with KIMS by living and volunteering in their boys’ home. Those two months were some of the most heart-wrenching, impactful, and rewarding months of my life, and it broke my heart to leave. After just five days of being there, I felt the Lord leading me to return.

The boys we served ranged from 5–18 years old. They may not have much, but you can tell by the way they carry themselves that they have everything they need. They are some of the most joyful, welcoming, and kind people we met during our entire nine-month journey! That same joy and hospitality can be seen throughout Filipino culture as well.

This October, I’ll be returning to volunteer and intern with KIMS, serving in many different capacities. Their ministries include a youth program, a girls’ home, a teen mom home, and many community outreaches. KIMS also has a fairly large base that is equipped to host teams and church groups from around the world. Groups typically stay for a week or two and serve throughout KIMS’ many ministries. Part of my role will be helping host these teams, including cooking for them and preparing and turning over their rooms.

I will need to raise $13,000 for the year, or about $1,100 per month. This will cover plane tickets, food and housing, and additional living expenses such as toiletries, laundry, and local transportation.

I’m looking for sponsors who are willing to partner with me through monthly financial support and lots of prayer! I can be fully funded with just eleven $100 monthly commitments or twenty-two $50 monthly commitments. One-time donations are also greatly appreciated, and you can give any amount at any time!