Wes and Keli Holbrook’s story with Living Water Adopt-A-Child (LWAAC) began more than 15 years ago, rooted in a growing desire to serve and make a personal impact through outreach. At the time, Wes had just left a career with the FBI after sensing a clear call from God to enter full-time ministry. In 2009, he became the pastor of the West Campus of Cedar Creek Church in Aiken, South Carolina—a turning point that would eventually connect the Holbrooks to LWAAC in a profound and lasting way.

Over the years, both Wes and Keli traveled to Guatemala with LWAAC, although never at the same time. Keli first went with their daughter during her high school years, while Wes made two trips of his own, most recently in the fall of 2022. For both of them, the experience was transformative.

They didn’t just witness the ministry’s work—they became part of it. The Holbrooks personally sponsor two children through LWAAC, both of whom have special needs. “Otherwise they would’ve aged out of the program by now,” Wes shared. Their commitment reflects a deep belief in LWAAC’s long-term, relational approach to child sponsorship.

One of the things that has stood out most to Wes and Keli is how personal the ministry is. “Every child and every woman has a name and is known by name,” Wes said. “They are not only told about Jesus and His love for them, but they are shown His love by those who work for the organization and those who partner with them.”

That personal connection has only grown deeper. In addition to their own sponsorship, the Holbrooks have seen their church community—now known as Fearless Church—embrace LWAAC as its primary global outreach partner. But even more meaningful are the relationships they have built, including a close friendship with Steve McDaniel, LWAAC’s International Director, and his wife, Ana. “They have stayed in our home and we’ve enjoyed other aspects of life, like fishing together,” Wes said. “They are our kind of people and we appreciate all that they do.”

For the Holbrooks, supporting LWAAC is about more than charity—it’s about true partnership in the gospel. They’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of LWAAC’s holistic model, which includes feeding centers, discipleship programs and medical outreach.

“The program cares for the whole person—mind, body and spirit,” Wes emphasized.

Their involvement continues to grow. In April 2024, the first student team from Fearless Church traveled to Guatemala. This October, the church will send its first adult team. Two young women from the congregation—both of whom were first introduced to LWAAC through student ministry trips—are currently serving as interns in Guatemala.

Through it all, Wes and Keli’s hearts remain focused on the mission: building relationships, spreading the love of Christ and ensuring that every child is known, valued and cared for.

You can be part of this story, too. Sponsor a child, join a mission trip or support the work of LWAAC—and help show the love of Jesus to the next generation.

Learn how to get involved or sponsor a child today!