Karen is the program consultant to the New Life Center Foundation (NLCF). This ministry, based in northern Thailand, serves ethnic minority women who are at risk for labor exploitation. The NLCF also provides protection and rehabilitation services to young women who are survivors of human trafficking, forced labor and sexual abuse. Main NLCF activities include educational scholarship support (from elementary to university), vocational training and therapeutic services for survivors. The latter includes art, dance and music therapy as well as individual counseling. Warmly evangelical, the NLCF strives to demonstrate the love of Jesus to all residents. As a program consultant, Karen’s assistance includes writing grants and reports, public relations, strategic planning and supporting the NLCF staff.

Karen writes – This past January, I had the privilege of participating in the 30^th anniversary celebration of the ministry of the New Life Center Foundation. This deeply worshipful, significant event brought together over 100 people; international and local donors, members of the board of directors, staff and residents, and representatives from the NLCF’s closest partners. We shared a meal, sang songs of praise, and were humbled by the testimonies of both former and current residents. As I talked with guests, enjoyed the delicious food, reveled in the celebration, and listened to these testimonies, I realized afresh that 30 years of ministry absolutely cannot be measured by one large event; it can only be measured by all the lives that have been transformed over the decades through God’s love.

While trends in trafficking and labor exploitation continue to shift, and the factors that influence this issue (poverty and seeking a better life and war and economic demand and migrant labor supply) continue to push and pull in various directions, the NLCF has kept a laser-sharp focus on its essential mission – providing education to the vulnerable, and rehabilitation to those who are survivors. The NLCF’s mission remains viable and relevant, despite the significant cultural, economic, political and social changes that have occurred in Thailand over the past three decades.

The Apostle Paul, in the book of Ephesians, chapter 3, verses 20 and 21 (New International Version) says that

“…Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen!”

In the New King James Version of the Bible, Paul’s words are translated as “…Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ask or think…according to the power that works in us…”

This verse encapsulates my feelings during this 30th anniversary celebration. God did more (and continues to do more) at this ministry than I could ever have asked; more than I dared to dream, and far more than I ever imagined. He brought capable and loyal staff, funds to initiate new projects and programs that resulted in changed lives, and partners to join us in the journey. He has sustained this ministry, which bears fruit for His glory. God has done exceedingly, abundantly, more than I could ever have asked or imagined. More! And He continues to be faithful to this, His ministry.

Wherever you are in your life today, I pray that you’d know the power of God that is at work within you, and trust Him to do exceedingly, abundantly, more than you could ask or imagine.

Thank you for your love, and your on-going support of this ministry!