Young Adult Serves, Raises Support

Posted August 25, 2025
Originally published in our August 2025 Newsletter

Corinne O’Connor had wanted to serve on an international mission team since reading “Kisses from Katie” in sixth grade. The book tells the story of Katie Davis Majors, who moved to Uganda after graduating high school. Katie had visited Uganda on a mission trip in her senior year. Today, Katie lives in Uganda and leads the ministry she founded that supports vulnerable families and children in that country.

Now in her senior year at West Virginia University (WVU), Corinne quickly signed up for a team serving with The Least of These Ministries when she learned of the opportunity at Suncrest United Methodist Church in Morgantown. She was part of the team from Suncrest that served during Thanksgiving week last November. The team poured several concrete floors in residents’ homes and was able to support some roof repairs. Team members also participated in Bible School activities in a couple of communities and served with the Food Distribution.

Corinne had done volunteer work and completed service projects since middle school, but November’s trip was her first international service experience. She was surprised at the living conditions of many in the communities where the team worked. Yet she witnessed that the families still were happy, many showing appreciation and giving glory to God for what they have.

“It’s made me happier, more grateful, for what I have,” Corinne said of her experience serving in the bateys. She said it also has helped her to appreciate more the importance of community—friends & family—over material things. And she sensed God’s presence, even amidst the difficult conditions.

Recognizing that much of the work being done in these communities comes with a financial cost, Corinne wanted to raise funds to help the ministry in this work. As a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS)—she was recently elected to serve as President of the WVU Chapter—she embarked on a fundraising journey in conjunction with her Chapter of NSCS.

Through several fundraising activities, the organization raised almost $400 for The Least of These Ministries! The funds were used to help cover expenses toward connecting electricity to the home built by the April Mission Team. This work will also help with the connection of future homes nearby, increasing the impact of the gift.

According to their website, “NSCS is an honors organization that recognizes and elevates high-achieving students. NSCS provides career and graduate school connections, leadership and service opportunities.” The WVU Chapter is one of over 300 nationwide.

Ms. O’Connor, who is pursuing a degree in Finance, said she hopes to return to serve in the Dominican Republic one day. She also would love to serve somewhere in Africa in the future. We’re confident that Corinne will share hope wherever God leads her!