top of page

From Virginia Beach to Kenya: Ralph & Jo Anne Reed’s Longtime Partnership Transforms Lives

  • Dr. Daniel Gilbert
  • 15 minutes ago
  • 2 min read
Dr Daniel & Mary Beth Gilbert
Dr. Gilbert

Tuesday, December 02

7:00 am

Dr Daniel & Mary Beth Gilbert


A Connection Rooted in Faith and Community


Ralph and Jo Anne Reed’s relationship with us began decades ago in Virginia Beach, where we all attended Kempsville Presbyterian Church.


A warm portrait of Ralph and Jo Anne Reed, longtime partners whose support for EmPowered Living helps transform the lives of orphans, pastors, and families in Kenya.
“We’re not just giving to a program,, we’re investing in people who are changing lives for eternity.” — Ralph & Jo Anne Reed

We knew them from church and the broader Regent University and CBN community,” Ralph recalls. “That bond never really goes away.”


After reconnecting in Atlanta, their partnership deepened when I (Daniel) shared about our new ministry in Kenya.


“He told us about the orphanage and asked for our help,” Ralph says. “We agreed to support the ministry—and we’ve been partners ever since.”


Why They Stay Committed: Integrity and Impact

For the Reeds, two core values define EmPowered Living’s work:

  1. Trust in Leadership “In every endeavor, relationships are the most important thing,” Ralph emphasizes. “We knew Danny and Mary Beth as people of integrity, capable and competent. If you have a good management team, you adapt and innovate—and that’s exactly what they’ve done.”

  2. Holistic Ministry Like Christ’s The Reeds are drawn to ministries that share the Gospel and meet tangible needs—just as Jesus did. “If people were hungry, He fed them. If they were lame, they walked,” Jo Anne explains. “EmPowered Living does the same: healthcare, education, job training—transforming lives so people can stand on their own two feet.”


The Ripple Effect of Their Support


Their giving has helped:

  • Orphans at Ebenezer Children’s Home receive love, education, daily hot meals and a sense of belonging.

  • Pastors in Kenya gain biblical training to combat false teachings and lead their communities.

  • Families in crisis access vocational programs to build sustainable futures.


“Danny’s Holy Week teachings on YouTube are a bonus,” Jo Anne adds with a smile. “I rewatch them every year—they’re that good.”


A Legacy of Partnership

The Reeds continue supporting EmPowered Living because they believe in its long-term vision. “We’re not just giving to a program,” Ralph says. “We’re investing in people who are changing lives for eternity.”

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page