Hey! My name is Vera Castillo and I am going to be fulfilling a purpose my Creator Jesus Christ has given me by going on a nine-month mission trip reaching parts of the world where many people and communities don’t normally receive much attention.

I am 19 years old and I was born and raised in Arroyo Grande, California. I believe in Jesus Christ and I put my trust in knowing that he has a plan for me and you. I want to be a vessel for Him as I continue through my life and resemble Him in everything I do, whether that be quickly praying for a stranger or going on a trip to spread his Word.

I have a tattoo on the inside of my arm that says, “purpose”; it represents my personal guiding verse which is Romans 8:28,” We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” I am passionate about knowing God’s purpose for my life and sharing with others that He has a purpose for them.

I have had the privilege to travel several times on short-term mission trips to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Texas. It was a great privilege and pleasure to help people in various ways such as painting houses, planting trees, giving milk goats and water-purifying systems. During these trips, my favorite thing to do has been giving large groups of children a “Vacation Bible School” experience by dancing and singing, giving them a hot meal and water, playing games, making crafts, painting their nails, and most importantly sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with them. Along side the day’s schedule, I treasured the divine appointments with the local people--those special God meetings where I had the privilege to pray for people--many of them single mothers with many kids--and encourage them in Christ. I thrive on this! My dream would be to one day be on the missions field full time as a nurse, however we will see what the Lord wants for me.

I want to join World Race this August to make Heaven crowded by traveling to various places and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ; serve people in need and love and encourage them in Christ. I want them to know they have purpose in Christ.

In order to join World Race, I need to raise $17,500 by this August. I’m humbly asking you to consider providing financial support. You may scan the QR code below or Venmo me directly! You can also send me a check, payable to Vera Castillo, and mail it to 108 Garden St., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420. Every penny counts and if you don’t feel led or aren’t in the position to give, prayer means everything to me and I will need as much as I can get over the next year! Thank you so much for reading and please share with anyone you can!