It’s hard to believe, but today Freedom Initiative International (FII) turns 7 years old!
And while we could share numbers and milestones (and there are many!), what matters most is why we do what we do.
At its heart, FII exists to share the love, hope, and freedom of Jesus Christ.
But there’s also a why behind the why.
Before I (Carrie) met Jesus, my life was marked by trauma, abuse, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and suicidal thoughts. By 19, I was broken and ready to give up. But God had other plans, He spared my life that night when I wanted to end it.
Years later, after bankruptcy and a marriage on the brink, I walked into a church desperate for hope. On that Sunday morning, tears streaming, I gave my life to Jesus.
And I’ve never been the same. He saved me. He healed me. He set me free.
Every bed built, every stove installed, every meal served, every cup of coffee poured, it all comes back to this:
“So if the sets you free, you will be free indeed” – John 8:36
I met Jesus and now I’m free.
That’s why we do what we do:
- Youth ministry — Because kids need safe places and safe adults outside their homes. Even when things look fine from the outside, they often aren’t.
- Men’s ministry — Because men need one another, whether they’ll admit it or not. Silence and pressure destroy homes.
- Women’s ministry — Because too many women (and men) carry deep wounds from trauma, violation, and shame.
- The Freedom Café — Because sometimes a coffee shop feels safer than a church.
- Bunk beds in Guatemala — Because separating kids can protect them from harm and give them dignity.
- Stove installations — Because it’s about more than clean air. It’s about relationships, trust, and the chance to share the Gospel.
The love, hope, and freedom Tyson and I have personally experienced through Christ is the reason we will never stop. And we’re so thankful that you’ve walked with us on this journey.
As we step into this next chapter of FII, will you celebrate with us by choosing one way to partner with us in this mission?
- Pray — Cover our family, our team, and those we serve in Guatemala and Texas. We’ve faced more spiritual attacks than we can count since the start of the school year, and your prayers mean everything.
- Give — Help fuel this next season by prayerfully considering a special gift or monthly support. Every dollar makes a difference. Your tax deductible gift may be given here.
- Serve — Join us on the ground, locally or abroad. We’ll be sharing more details soon with opportunities to serve.
Together, we’re building bridges, igniting freedom, and seeing lives transformed by the Gospel. Thank you for being part of this story.
