…and everyone has something to give
Solar Oven Partners’ mission to transform people’s lives through solar cooking would be impossible without the generosity of thousands of individuals over its 25-year history. In the next few weeks we will highlight generosity that happens in a myriad of ways by a variety of people. Read on…
The Carpenter’s Gift – Paul Hilgedick, Huron SD
Expert hands with a saw and drill first brought Paul Hilgedick into Solar Oven Partners’ fold of volunteers. When he heard the ministry was in need of someone to cut pieces for the ovens’ wooden frames, the Huron, S.D., man answered, “I can do that.’”
Do it he can. Since 2017, this experienced carpenter has cut, drilled holes and packed enough wooden frame pieces to help build 2,400 ovens–enough for two sea containers full of 1,200 solar oven kits each.
Those wooden frame pieces are a vital part of a precious load of solar oven components that, when assembled and distributed at SOP seminars, can change the financial, environmental and health conditions for economically challenged families in the Dominican Republic and Sierra Leone, and in the Navajo Nation in Arizona and New Mexico.
“I spend about 150 hours making frames for 1,200 ovens,” says Paul, who finds the time in between his pay job as a finish carpenter. Paul’s generous spirit doesn’t end with woodworking. He’s served on four Volunteers in Mission teams to Sierra Leone, three to the Dominican Republic and this summer led a small team to partner with Four Corners Native American Ministry in a SOP seminar in Arizona. Paul’s wife, Rita, has accompanied him on two trips to both Sierra Leone and the Dominican Republic.
“We feel like we’re incredibly blessed,” says Paul. “I do not consider myself a wealthy person, but compared to other people in the world I am wealthy.” He’s been amazed when attending worship services in Sierra Leone and the Dominican Republic to see, during the offering, the joy with which these people with very limited financial resources give. “This is my way to give back, and I feel I’ve received way more than I’ve given.”