Born to a pastor in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Rachel grew up in her local church. Her desire to help people and be of service to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Rachel eventually ended up attending Concordia University Nebraska where she studied both education and theology. Upon graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a specialist degree to serve as a Director of Christian Education she spent 3 years serving in the church as a director of Family Life Ministry. During this time she met many people who had been foster parents, and became inspired by their stories. She knew eventually she wanted to work with kids in the foster care system, and in 2018 she contemplated leaving the church for non-profit work.

While the initial idea was sparked during this time Rachel had other lessons to learn. Rather than follow her plan to volunteer with nonprofits in her area Rachel felt that God was leading her to transition into a traditional classroom teaching role. During the next 3 years she observed some amazing students as they discovered that, despite their apparent lack of success in school, a bit of passion could make learning fun. She marveled at their curiosity, observing them becoming passionate about a wide variety of subjects, and activities. It finally became clear to her how all the pieces fit together. Her love for the Lord, passion for serving children in the foster care system, interest in non-profit work and her background in education all pointed to a greater mission. Her goal was to help children who lacked resources gain access to the types of classes, lessons, camps that would allow them to foster their talents in whatever their passions happen to be. In 2021 she left teaching and began to build her knowledge of marketing and running her own non-profit; Fostering Talent. Rachel is grateful for the support of her board, and cannot wait to see where God takes this ministry.

Currently Rachel lives in the St. Louis Metropolitan area where she enjoys spending time with her family. Her greatest joy is being a godmother to her niece, and her cousin’s daughter both of whom share a birthday month. She loves watching baseball and never passes up a chance to go to a Cardinals game. In her free time she sings in the church choir and volunteers as a part of the Family Life Council.