Ben was born and raised in Spokane, Washington where he grew up learning the truth of God. He has had the opportunity to listen to Mr. Mickelson over the years tell stories of the brethren in West Africa and the work that God is doing on the African continent. As a result of those stories, he has desired to be a part of that work in Africa and to have the opportunity to serve the brethren of West Africa in some way. When this United Youth Corps opportunity presented itself -- it was just too good to pass up.
Ben currently resides in Salem, Oregon with his wife Shannon and their three wonderful children. He has been educating young people for the past 12 years, currently teaching 8th Grade Science at Waldo Middle School in Salem, Oregon. He also coaches Track and Field and is the adviser for the Waldo Chapter of MESA Oregon, an after-school engineering program. He enjoys being in God's creation and hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting round out some of his favorite activities. He also enjoys reading, beekeeping, board games, helping his wife turn their tiny backyard into an urban farm.
He serves as an Elder in the Salem, Eugene and Roseburg congregations of the United Church of God and has been involved in the United Youth Camp program for a number of years, most recently serving at NW Camp and NW Preteen Camp.
He is very excited to have the opportunity to meet and serve the young people of Nigeria.