Renee Koeller achieved what many people dream of— turning her personal passion into a career. As an interior designer, she brings great beauty into the homes of people with the means to afford her services.
“It was fulfilling work, but it never occurred to me how my career could dovetail with my Christian life and concern for the poor.” In 2014 when Renee learned about Joshua Station’s Spruce-A-Room program, here was another life opportunity: she could turn her career passion into a blessing for incoming families healing from homelessness. “I treat each Joshua Station room project exactly as I do with my highest paying clients. I want them to experience beauty in their homes and inspiration as they better their lives.”
Renee “spruced” one Joshua Station residence unit per year, until an extremely difficult personal event in 2020 forced a pause. Early this year, despite ongoing financial challenges, Renee resumed with a Joshua Station project. It brought her great joy.
One day this summer, Renee prayerfully came to a new sense that “I want to say YES rather than NO to opportunities to give and serve.” The very next day, as if a test for Renee’s newfound resolve—Volunteer Coordinator Kira put out an urgent notice about a family’s unit. Renee had already spent her time and money for 2024, but what about her commitment to YES?
While wrestling with the need that afternoon, Renee had a casual front-porch conversation over snacks with a couple neighbors. Renee mentioned the need for any extra furniture they might have. Within five minutes, a brand-new neighbor promised to write a check for the entire décor cost (eventually totaling $2,800). This fall Renee finished the project, lovingly customized for the Joshua Station family.
“God promises never to leave us or forsake us,” is Renee’s encouragement. “Just say yes and trust God! Use the resources and talents God gave you. I’m so thankful for how I can contribute.”
Renee’s generosity inspires me, and I hope you as well. I’d like you to be generous with our resident families in your own way and capacity— with a supportive gift for our work of building redemptive housing communities. From now until December 10—Colorado Gives Day—your gift will be boosted by a $1M local incentive fund for organizations like ours.
In Christ,
Jeff Johnsen
Executive Director
P.S. If you prefer to give directly through our website instead of through Colorado Gives, you may do so here. Or, you can mail a check to Mile High Ministries, 913 N. Wyandot St., Denver, CO 80204.
