At the beginning of our Month 5, L Squad was put into all new teams. Two of us, Morgan and Jackie, got raised up to be Squad Leaders. That basically means that they have to take care of all the problems and make decisions when it comes to COVID, teams, and ministries. It’s a whole lot of work, but they have done an amazing job so far! The rest of us were split into 3 teams again. We were also given new roles, which means that I’m no longer the Team Leader. Now I’m in charge of running Beauty for Ashes, our women’s events. I’m so excited to be able to take a step back and focus on something that I’m super passionate about. I really loved leading my first team but figuring out all the logistical things and meal planning for 20 people weren’t my favorite activities. Beauty for Ashes is all about bringing God’s freedom and restoration to women in order to empower them to rewrite their own stories, have a more intimate relationship with the Lord, and be able to pour into and disciple others. I can’t wait to see how the Lord works through these exercises and questions to give women a new understanding of their identity and worth in Him!

All that being said, please give a warm welcome to the Golden Girls! We picked our name because we tend to be the more laid back “old souls” of the group. You’ve already met two of the Grannies, but there’s two that I have yet to introduce:

Sarah-Katherine Smith – Team Leader

Hi! My name is Sarah-Katherine! I’m super honored to say I’m the Team Lead for Golden Girls :) A little bit about me: I’m 22, I grew up on the river in Virginia, I just graduated from college with a degree in social justice and humanitarian affairs. My heart beats for justice and for loving the poor, oppressed, and marginalized – human rights is my jam! I love reading, I love exploring the world, I LOVE JESUS.

Take a look at Sarah-Katherine's Facebook and Instagram!

Dana Salesman – Worship Coordinator

Hey fam, my name is Dana! I am a Michigan born gal but have been living in Utah for the last four years now. Utah is where I received my nursing degree and learned about all things outdoors. Sign me up for any and all things that deal with adventure/hiking/camping! Aside from the “fun,” I do work in the Pediatric ICU in Salt Lake City. I LOVE my job a lottt, so it was really difficult to leave and finally pull the trigger to go on the Race. However, in that hardship of sacrificing the comfort and sustainability of my job the Lord has provide so much more than imaginable. That’s all for now! Follow my vlog for visuals of what the Golden Gals are up too! Xoxo

Be sure to check out Dana's Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Channel!

Claire Berry – Treasurer

I’m so excited to see Claire tackle this role! The treasurers have to handle all our money when it comes to food, lodging, transportation, and random costs (mainly COVID tests if I’m being honest). It takes a lot of responsibility and math, which I know she’s going to crush! I’m incredibly grateful to have Claire on my team again and I can’t wait to keep going on this journey with her.

Stay updated with Claire on her Facebook!

Shelby Sager – Intercessor

Shelby was one of the few people who kept her role from the last team. Prayer is such an important weapon and tool, especially as we’re traveling in third world countries. It’s so important for our squad to have several prayer warriors and worship coordinators to make sure that we stay centered on what truly matters. I’m excited to watch Shelby continue to grow in and develop her prayer life!

Remember to check out Shelby's Facebook and Instagram!

I’m so glad that I was finally able to introduce all of you to the Golden Girls! We’ve been together since South Africa and while it was certainly an adjustment, we really feel like a team now. I’m so grateful for these amazing women and I hope that you’ll all learn to love them as I do. Please be praying for all of us as we do the jobs for our roles and keep getting to know one another.