Don’t Can’t Hometown Kick-Off

On August 13th, Mariner’s Church in Irvine hosted the hometown launch of “Don’t Can’t: Run to the Front,” an event led by Reaching Beyond Ourselves (RBO) executive directors Ryan and Mila Birtcher. The choice of venue was particularly meaningful, as the Birtchers not only call Mariner’s Church their home church but also lead its Ukrainian Ministry. Since the onset of the Russian invasion in February 2022, Mariner’s Church and its Global Outreach team have been pivotal supporters of RBO and the Chaplains Battalion of Mariupol, contributing nearly half a million dollars in emergency support and humanitarian aid. Their efforts have been instrumental in re-establishing their partner’s communities in Western Ukraine, building long-term transitional homes, and setting up refugee centers.

The launch event was a heartwarming gathering of friends, family, and the broader RBO and Mariner’s Church communities, offering a moment for all to be introduced to the Don’t Can’t campaign, its vision and initiative’s long term goals.  It was a special evening for Ryan and Mila Birtcher, who were moved by the support from their community, including attendees from RBO’s weekly Ukrainian Prayer Call and longtime friends like Connie Rutenbar, Tim Healy and Herman Brown. The event served as a significant milestone in the teams’ efforts, providing a platform to share their work and foster advocacy for Ukraine. Ryan expressed his gratitude, noting how rewarding it was to finally unveil months of hard work. The evening also left runner Nikki Chay inspired and motivated to take on the challenge, making the cause feel more tangible and real. Special thanks to Allison Crawford, Mariner’s Global Outreach pastor, whose unwavering support made the event possible and has so positively impacted Ryan and Mila’s journey.


Reaching Beyond Ourselves

Reaching Beyond Ourselves (RBO) is a California non-profit organization (501(c)3, that focuses on serving its global partners through advocacy and the power of presence. We hope to create awareness for their causes and to show support by walking alongside them. RBO believes that we serve each other mutually through learning and meaningful relationship with one another.

Our organization engages in social project support and immersive mission trips around the world as well as hosting advocacy events and participates in fundraising campaigns in coordination with its partners in the United States. Currently, RBO is focusing its efforts supporting its friends in Ukraine & hosting annual immersion trips to Kenya. We echo what our dear friend, Christian Mungai, always reminds us: People are the Wealth.

https://www.rboglobal.org
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Portland Campaign Launch Event