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the Living Water For Uganda
“But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.” JOHN 13:35
Our Programs
Water Ministry
Our Water Ministry focuses on providing clean and safe drinking water to communities in Uganda. We identify areas in need, then work with local partners to install wells, purification systems, and sustainable water sources. By addressing this fundamental need, we improve public health, reduce waterborne diseases, and create opportunities for community development. Importantly, our work in water is more than just meeting physical needs; it serves as a gateway to share the message of Jesus, connecting the gift of clean water with the Living Water of Christ.
Health Ministry
The Health Ministry is dedicated to delivering essential medical care and health education to underserved communities in Uganda. We provide clinics, mobile medical teams, and healthcare training to ensure that both immediate and long-term health needs are met. Our approach is rooted in compassion and service, offering medical care as a tangible expression of Christ's love. Through our health initiatives, we build relationships that allow us to introduce people to the Gospel, intertwining spiritual care with physical healing for holistic community transformation.
Our Journey: Empowering Communities Through Faith
At Uganda Tree of Life Ministries (UTOL), we are dedicated to partnering with Christian NGOs in Uganda to uplift and support the physical and spiritual well-being of the people in central Africa. With a focus on soul formation in the young generation, we aim to create lifelong followers of Christ who bring glory to Him in all aspects of their lives.
Making a Lasting Impact in Uganda
UToL’s work in Uganda is transforming lives and communities. Through our partnerships with Christian NGOs, we are bringing hope, healing, and the love of Jesus to those in need.
Meet Our Team
Get to know the Leaders behind Uganda Tree of Life Ministries
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.
