Many Hands for Abaco (MH4A) is excited to announce the two newest members of our team on the island. Deborah and Tim Winkler will head to Abaco at the beginning of September to start their new roles. Deborah will be taking on the role of Director for the First 1,000 Days program. Her focus will be implementing this new program in Abaco and striving to make a meaningful impact on young children’s and their families’ lives. Abaco’s First 1,000 Days program will differ from Haiti’s. The program will be customized to the needs of the families that call Abaco home. Tim will be stepping into the role of Director of Ministry for Abaco. This multifaceted position encompasses a range of responsibilities, including team leadership, acting as the primary liaison for Many Hands with the Bahamian government, overseeing programs, and increasing stakeholder engagement.

Pictured above: New Abaco missionaries Tim and Deborah Winkler

Deborah and Tim have been married for 32 years after meeting in college at Wheaton in Illinois. The two have three grown children and a son-in-law together and call South Carolina home. The two bring a wealth of knowledge to Many Hands for Abaco. Tim is the founder and CEO of the Winkler Group, a consulting firm specializing in capital campaign management and strategic planning. Deborah also played a crucial role in founding the Winkler Group, working with Tim to build the firm to the success that it is today. Deborah also spent seven years working in public education, providing administrative support and contributing to developing educational initiatives.

Pictured above: Tim and Deborah’s three children and son-in-law

When asked about this next chapter with MH4A, Deborah shared that she hopes to foster strong connections with young and expectant mothers within the First 1,000 Days program. She believes that God will use her to make a spiritual impact on participants’ lives, empowering them to positively influence their children, families, and communities for the glory of God. Tim shared that his hope in his new role is to make a significant impact by embracing the pioneering nature of the ministry in Abaco.

Pictured above: Father Tim Winkler preaching

“I have been deeply impressed by the passion and mission-driven approach of this incredible organization,” commented Tim. “Many Hands exemplifies the biblical model of presenting the gospel in both word and deed, and their focus, nimbleness, and entrepreneurial spirit truly set them apart.”

The Winklers and MH4A are excited to see how God will use each person’s gifts and knowledge as a team to create lasting change and further the kingdom of God in this community.