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Our Core Mission
Uganda Tree of Life Ministries (UTOLM) is a Christ-centered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the physical and spiritual well-being of Ugandans through our Water and Health Ministries. By providing clean water and essential healthcare, we open doors to share the love of Jesus, fostering spiritual growth alongside physical health and nourishment. Our goal is to create lifelong followers of Christ by using these vital services as a bridge to teach the young generation in Uganda about the Gospel, ensuring they glorify Him in all they do.
Providing Clean Water to Transform Lives in East Africa
The UToL water ministry’s mission is to provide clean and sustainable water access to underserved Ugandan villages by digging wells and educating communities on water hygiene and maintenance. By partnering with local leaders, churches, and organizations, the ministry aims to improve health, reduce waterborne diseases, and promote long-term development. Along with physical water provision, the ministry seeks to share the love of Christ through outreach and spiritual support. Ultimately, it strives to empower local communities to maintain their wells and improve their overall quality of life.
Providing Life-Saving Medical Aid in Uganda
The UToL health ministry’s mission is to improve the well-being of underserved Ugandan villages by providing access to essential medical care, health education, and sanitation resources. Through partnerships with local clinics, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, the ministry seeks to reduce preventable diseases and promote overall health. In addition to physical care, the ministry offers emotional and spiritual support, sharing the love of Christ through compassionate service. By empowering local communities with knowledge and resources, the ministry aims to foster long-term health and wellness.
Local and International Church Partners
Meet Our Team
Get to know the core team behind our organization
President: Chris Knippa
Chris Knippa is a native Texan, born in Ft. Worth and raised in Dallas. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University and has been residing in Boerne, TX for 20+ years with his wife. Together they have two children, Riley and Dean, along with their first grandchild, Hallie. They have been members of St. John Lutheran Church for more than 20 years. It is at St. John that Chris was introduced in to the Uganda ministry while he was serving as chairperson on the church Outreach Committee. Chris joined the board of Uganda Tree of Life in 2012 and has served as president of UTOLM since 2016. Chris focuses his efforts and talents on water well missions in Uganda.
Vice President: Vicki Smith
Vicki is also a native Texan and over 35 year resident of the city of Boerne, located in the Hill Country northwest of San Antonio. She is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center where she received a degree in nursing. Vicki has three children and seven grandchildren. She learned of UTOL in 2009 from other members of her church, First United Methodist. In 2009, she went on her first mission trip to Uganda and in 2010, joined the UTOL Board as medical advisor. Her focus is on reaching the most vulnerable children living in remote areas where there is no healthcare.
Secretary: Sheree Stevens
Sheree Stevens is a Dallas native and retired to Boerne in 2009 with her late husband. Sheree and Sam were in the Real Estate Brokerage and Appraisal business for many years in the D/FW area. Retiring to Boerne and the Hill Country was a 20-year dream. Sheree learned of UTOLM through her church, FUMC Boerne and became a sponsor in 2013 and joined the Board as Secretary in 2016. She is also on the Board of the Boerne Community Theatre and is on stage with their Reader’s Theatre program and occasional productions. Traveling, volunteering and being Mom to Frankie Cat keeps her busy. Sheree is blessed to be a part of this sweet ministry, helping spread the gospel through education, medical help and clean water.
Treasurer: Wayne Voss
Wayne is a native Texan and graduate of Texas A&M University. He has been a resident of the Texas Hill Country for over 34 years. He and his wife, Marcy, are members of St. John Lutheran Church in Boerne. They have 2 married children, both currently serving in the military, and one granddaughter. Wayne has supported the Uganda Tree of Life ministry for years. His first trip to Uganda in 2019 left a deep impact, causing him to take a more active role in the ministry.
Board Member: Kim Burke
Reverend Kim Burke is an Elder in the United Methodist church and serves our board as spiritual director. She is currently serving as Senior Pastor of North Shore United Methodist in Canyon Lake. Kim has been involved and serving UTOL since 2009. Since that time she has sponsored children, traveled many times to Uganda and is currently focusing on digging water wells to the most needy communities assisting in bringing clean water and the Living Water of Jesus Christ to our Ugandan friends. Kim also has a passion for Women’s leadership and works closely with our Women’s Ministry in Uganda providing training and empowerment.
Board Member: Lee Bowers
Lee Bowers, a follower of Christ, was born in Austin, TX but has lived in the San Antonio/Boerne area for over 45 years. He is married to Cindy and together they have three beautiful daughters, three fabulous sons in laws and many precious grandchildren. After joining Mike & Kim Gaunt and Greg Lewis on mission to Uganda in 2006, Lee has returned several times and thoroughly enjoyed building friendships and expanding God’s Kingdom in Uganda. Lee assisted in creating UTOL, served as President of the Board and continues to serve on the Board today.
