Unlikely Sources

by Kate Murr

New donors, Dr. David and Sue Engsberg heard about The Rainbow Network through an unlikely source: Goetze-Niemer Dental Supply.

A Rainbow Network dentist treats a patient in Nicaragua.

When David made plans for retirement this year, he sought out philanthropies that could benefit from his accumulated equipment and supplies.  He asked everyone he encountered for recommendations, even his dental supply representative.

“Missions have always been important to us,” said David. “Over the years we’ve gone to Jamaica and the Navaho reservations out west, and we’re aware of the tremendous need people have.”  After taking a 50^th anniversary celebration cruise last November to the Panama Canal, the happy couple had an opportunity to visit Nicaragua, and their hearts went out to the citizens they witnessed living in desperate poverty.

Though David can’t remember the name of the Goetze-Niemer supply rep who recommended The Rainbow Network as a recipient of his dental equipment, David credits him as his inspiration for researching the work and aims of the organization.  “After that, I just made a few phone calls and eventually talked to Dr. Ed Schanda [a past board member who helped establish dental clinics in several Rainbow Network villages], who confirmed the need for equipment.”

Sue says they researched The Rainbow Network online and kept seeing and hearing so many good things about the organization that they felt very led to give. They felt an attachment to the dental program in Nicaragua, which is composed of a staff of dentists and volunteers who rotate throughout the networks. Last month alone, 187 patients received basic dental care. “We prayed for divine guidance and God’s blessing for this gift and we received it!,” said Sue. “We’re still excited about it and know that we made the right decision.”

Special thanks to Dr. David and Sue Engsberg for their inquires and gifts, and to the mystery representative who pointed them in our direction.  Thank you to our board members, past and present, who see and meet needs, and provide tremendous support. Sometimes asking a question or sharing a passion for service really can create a tremendous impact in the lives of individuals.  Thank you to those of you who do this daily. You inspire each of us to be the network.

Nixon and Lindstrom Show Support

Luke Nixon (left) delivers the check to Rainbow Network's Rev. Jim Oman

Nixon and Lindstrom Insurance in Springfield, Missouri continues to support Rainbow Network’s core ministries in Nicaragua. Company President, Luke Nixon, visited the Rainbow Network office to deliver a check of support on behalf of his company in partnership with American First Insurance. Rainbow Network’s Executive Director, Rev. Jim Oman     was on hand to accept the gift.