This summer, Levi Gerbitz and Grace Bailey of the Bruins track and field teams had the opportunity to travel to Uganda where they partnered with Sufficiency of Scripture Ministries (SOS) and Joni and Friends to serve individuals with disabilities in the Kubamitwe community. As part of a small team of Bob Jones University students, they used skills as Communication Disorders majors to provide free speech-language therapy in collaboration with local believers and missionaries who are deeply invested in that community.

Throughout their time in Uganda, the team worked closely with students at Legacy Christian Academy (LCA), patients at the SOS Outreach Clinic, and villagers with a range of special needs. Therapy sessions with the Legacy students closely resembled school-based services common in the United States. Work in the clinic and villages, however, involved more complex needs and required cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

One of the most memorable moments came during an outreach event where individuals with disabilities came with their families to enjoy food, games, and were given a clear presentation of the gospel. This event served as a powerful reminder of the beauty of meeting both physical and spiritual needs in the name of Christ. 

Both Gerbitz and Bailey were moved by the passion and faithfulness of the Ugandan teachers, teenagers, and missionary families.

"It was amazing to see the Lord at work, specifically in the lives of the teachers and teenagers at Legacy Christian Academy," Bailey said. "Their passion for Christ is so strong, and I was deeply encouraged by their fellowship."

Reflecting on his time in Uganda, Gerbitz shared the overall theme of the trip. "This experience reminded me how the gospel can exponentially spread when we come together to meet both physical and spiritual needs."

The two Bruins returned home grateful for the experience that helped form new relationships and gave them the opportunity to grow in their field and present the gospel.