In 2015, my husband and I began to think about our future. It is in our plans to be lifelong missionaries here in the Dominican Republic, running Hope House. But we also realized that Mike and I’s futures are not the only ones we need to be aware of – we also have three children. As we began to think about their futures we then realized that our kids have already sacrificed a lot to live in a foreign land with their parents. Don’t get me wrong – they are thriving here. But one thing we don’t want them to have to sacrifice is their ability to go to college in the United States if the opportunity presents itself. Just like any other parents, we want to be good stewards of our finances as well as be able to help our kids achieve their own dreams when they are ready. After a lot of prayer and a lot of consideration, I decided to become an R+F Consultant.
What is R+F?
If you are on social media often, you probably already know what R+F is. But if you are not, Rodan + Fields® Dermatologists was founded by world-renowned dermatologists Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields. It was named the 2010 Rising Star by the Direct Selling Association (DSA) for its dedication to achieving a high standard of excellence in business operations, and awarded numerous awards for business campaigns and products, Rodan + Fields is the anti-aging company to watch. In essence, it is a very successful skincare company.
Why did I choose R+F?
The skincare industry makes billions of dollars every year. After doing some research, and talking with a friend who is in the business, I really liked their business model. And because of the supply and demand of the skincare industry, I knew this could be a business endeavor that had longevity and opportunity for our family and ministry. I needed a home-based business that was primarily done via internet and this was it.
Why did I join now?
As I mentioned before, our kids are my #1 reason. I want them to be able to attend college, if that is their desire. My #2 reason is Mike and I’s life after ministry. Eventually, we will turn 80 and not be able to keep up with toddlers anymore. Someday we will have to consider retiring. Most missionaries that leave the field have absolutely nothing to come home to. We do not have a house, a car, or property waiting for us when we retire. Also, because of the “risk” involved in missionary life, insurance companies will not approve us for life insurance. If anything happens to us, our kids get nothing. And because we do not receive any social security benefits, we will not be able to retire and live off of social security either. Besides all of these things, under no circumstance do we feel like our supporters should be responsible to pay for our children’s college tuition or Mike and I’s retirement. It’s just something we feel is our responsibility.
What does this mean for our supporters?
It shouldn’t affect anything. We absolutely still need your support. This will in no way be enough for an income – it’s only purpose is to give us the ability to save for the things mentioned above. We can not do ministry without the support of churches and individuals.
How will this affect ministry?
I am committing three hours a week to this. So, it shouldn’t affect it at all. My purpose and passion is Hope House. All of my energy is focused toward bringing God glory through these kids he allows us to care for. If there is ever a time where I get to a place that this “side” endeavor got in the way of my ability to effectively minister at Hope House, I would leave it immediately.
How did I finance the start-up?
I didn’t use a dime of donated support. I did several family photo sessions here in the Dominican, as well as a few wood projects in order to purchase my first skincare products. And after talking to a friend, she believed in my purpose for doing this so much, that she covered the rest.
How does this affect you?
It doesn’t have to affect you at all – unless you want it to - but any support in this is greatly appreciated. If you have ever been curious about the products – order them from me knowing your money is not only going toward great skincare but inadvertently supporting our family as well! If you have ever been curious about at-home businesses – let me know and maybe you could join my team! If you know people who are interested in either the products or the business – send them my way! All of these things take little to no effort but help me build this business effectively.
I am not doing this to win a Lexus or go on an exotic vacation or become financially free. But as a Mama, I want to take care of my kids however I can. God called us to this beautiful life. He has provided for us exponentially beyond what we could ever ask or imagine. I want to glorify Him in every aspect of my life – and that includes making smart decisions and being good stewards of our resources.
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