The Calling & Our Story

From Surf Trip to Spirit-Led Mission

In 2017, what I thought was a simple surf trip to Nicaragua turned into a life-changing encounter. I didn’t know I’d be traveling with four pastors — or that I’d witness poverty and faith in ways I couldn’t ignore.

We surfed, served, prayed for strangers, and listened to locals who lived with so little, yet held onto so much faith. On that trip, something shifted in me.

I returned the following month to help lead a larger mission. When locals said, “Most missionaries come once,” I knew I was called to more than a single trip – I was called to return, build relationships, and show up again and again.

On the final night, during a powerful prayer, the Holy Spirit met me in a way I’ll never forget. I released years of shame and resentment. I felt brand new.

This experience sparked a divine calling, inspired by Hebrews 3:4 –

‘Every house is built by someone, but God is the Designer and Builder of all things.’

That moment became the spark for what’s now S3 Ministry – built on the mission of Shelter. Salvation. Sustainability.

We’ve led dozens of mission teams, brought down our families, partnered with local churches, and helped build homes, gardens, and discipleship programs across Southern Nicaragua.

Today, we’re developing a full community of micro homes, clean water access, and Christ-centered support, empowering families to break cycles of hardship and build lasting hope.

And it all started with a surf trip I hadn’t planned.

S3 Founders JT & Ashley Rhodes with their children in Nicaragua

Faith Foundation

At the heart of S3 Ministry is a simple belief: God sees the hurting, and He calls us to respond.

Scripture reminds us in Psalm 34:6,

“This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.”

We exist to echo that same compassion – to be the hands and feet of Jesus through Shelter, Salvation, and Sustainability.

Our work is rooted in the Gospel and lived out through action. We partner with local churches like Iglesia El Camino Popoyo to build communities where faith isn’t just preached – it’s practiced.

As James 2:15–16 urges,

“If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food… what good is it if you do not help?”

We’re answering that call — building homes, planting hope, and pointing people to Jesus in every project we touch.

Mission Statement

At S3 Ministry, we build homes, restore hope, and share the love of Christ with women and children in Nicaragua.

Vision Statement

We envision a future where Nicaraguan women in crisis find healing, strength, and purpose in Christ, achieving self-sufficiency and breaking cycles of hardship with Shelter, Salvation and Sustainability. Through faith, discipleship, and sustainable resources, they will build thriving communities that transform future generations.

Creating an Impact

At S3 Ministry, we believe transformation begins with three things: Shelter, Sustainability, and Salvation – and we’re seeing it happen, one family at a time.

Right now, just minutes from Iglesia El Camino Popoyo, we’re developing a community that will provide:

Safe homes for women and children in crisis

A large garden to grow sustainable food

Clean water for every household

This isn’t just about buildings. It’s about breaking the cycle of poverty and building a future rooted in hope, dignity, and the love of Christ.

What We Need Now:

We’re raising $50,000 to pay off the land and $10,000 per home to begin construction.

Every dollar brings a family closer to freedom, security, and a faith-filled community.

Volunteer With Purpose

Whether you’re swinging a hammer, praying over a family, or helping host a fundraiser – you can be part of bringing Shelter, Sustainability, and Salvation to life. At S3 Ministry, we offer volunteer opportunities both in Nicaragua and at home: Join one of our self-funded mission trips to help build homes, plant gardens, or share the Gospel with local families. Support stateside through local fundraisers, prayer gatherings, and community outreach events. No matter your skill set, there’s a place for you to serve.

Ready to step in?

Sign up below to hear about upcoming trips, service projects, and ways to get involved – both locally and abroad.
S3 Ministry Volunteers in a circle praying with the heads bowed

Join the Mission. Change a Life.

Be part of a movement that brings Shelter, Salvation, and Sustainability to families in desperate need. Your gift – whether one-time, monthly, or through our merch store – directly builds homes, provides clean water, and shares the hope of Jesus.