Summit Missions: Making a Difference in Kenya

September 19, 2025

Summit Missions: Making a Difference in Kenya

 

A team of Summit Christian Academy staff members and three senior students are on their way home after a life-changing two–week mission trip to Kenya. The group of eight has spent the past two weeks serving local ministries, learning from Kenyan communities, and sharing Christ’s love in meaningful ways.

Our Team

We are so proud of our Summit staff and students who represented our school with excellence and compassion:
Staff: Donna Gradel, Lori Kelly, Mike Kelly, Rosie Ashworth, and Kayla Price
Students: McKenzie Conway, Sophie Lake, and Abby Matloff

A Mission with Purpose

At Summit Christian Academy, we believe that faith is lived out through service. Our mission is to glorify God by providing students with opportunities to grow academically, spiritually, and in their character as they live out the Great Commission.

This trip to Kenya carried a clear threefold purpose:

  • To Serve – partnering with local ministries and communities to support their ongoing work.

  • To Learn – experiencing the culture, beauty, and daily life of the Kenyan people.

  • To Share – bringing back stories, photos, and reflections to encourage and inspire others.

Trip Highlights

During their time in Kenya, the team experienced a powerful blend of service and discovery:

  • Visiting the United Nations in Nairobi for a global perspective on leadership and service.

  • Encouraging students through school visits in Kibera.

  • Hosting a STEAM camp, sparking creativity and innovation for children.

  • Spending time in local homes, praying with families and offering encouragement.

  • Worshiping with Kenyan believers, celebrating unity across cultures.

  • Getting up close with giraffes at the Giraffe Centre.

  • Experiencing a safari in the Masai Mara, marveling at God’s creation.

  • Rolling up their sleeves for a workday, serving in practical ways.

Looking Ahead

“This trip has been transformational for our students and staff,” said Donna Gradel, Summit staff member and trip leader. “We came to Kenya to serve and to learn, but in the process, we discovered just how much the Kenyan people have to teach us about resilience, joy, and faith. These are lessons we will carry for the rest of their lives.”

Right now, the team is making its way back from Nairobi, and we look forward to learning from their experiences in the days ahead. This is just the beginning of Summit’s commitment to providing overseas learning projects that allow students to grow as world changers and make a difference around the globe.

👉 To see daily stories, photos, and reflections from the Kenya team, visit the Summit Christian Academy Missions Blog.