Dear TOLI Family,
After seven years of serving TOLI as a Board Member and Executive Director, the time has come for me to step into a new chapter of ministry. While I am so sad to say goodbye, I am full of gratitude and joy to be able to introduce you to the next leader God sent to shepherd TOLI into its own flourishing next chapter!
After months of prayer, reviewing more than 70 applications, seeking the Holy Spirit, and even more prayer, we’re delighted to introduce Don Paterson as TOLI’s next Executive Director.
Don brings with him deep faith in Jesus, extensive ministry experience, a humble heart, and desire to leave a lasting legacy that brings glory to God. Don has served at the highest levels of world-class organizations, including World Vision and Awana International to name a few. He’s led teams ranging from just a handful to hundreds of staff, serving ministries working in the areas of discipleship, poverty alleviation and development, evangelism, and holistic ministry. Don is particularly adept at leading through important moments of transition and growth. We praise God for placing a call on Don’s heart to bring dignified, sustainable, Christ-centered transformation through TOLI.
Thank you for continuing to pray for TOLI and our team as we all work to ensure a smooth transition. We can’t wait to see what God has in store.
With gratitude and joy,
Abigail
A message from Don
Dear friends,
First, let me say how excited I am. It’s a privilege to be a part of this ministry and the TOLI family! I believe the mission of TOLI – to provide microloans, share the Gospel, and work with amazing partners – is vital for transformational and sustainable development.
My goal in every season is to respond to God’s call in my life – to be a life-long disciple of Jesus Christ. My desire is to consistently give witness to God’s love, mercy, grace, forgiveness and faithfulness. I became a Christian at a young age and have seen God’s overwhelming faithfulness to me and my family. My wife of 46 years, the love of my life and best friend, went home to be with the Lord in February 2020 after a one year battle with cancer. Her servant-heart and steadfast faith were a blessing and impact to many. We have three sons and five grandchildren, all who claim Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Four years ago, I moved to Colorado to be near our youngest and his family.
My desire is to leave a Christ-focused legacy in my family, church, community and anywhere that God asks me to serve for His glory – including TOLI!
After serving in leadership positions at several large corporations, God opened the door for me to transition to full-time ministry. I’ve served in senior and executive leadership roles at World Vision, Awana Clubs International, CSB Ministries, Africa Heart, City Mosaic, as well as in executive church leadership. God has called me to serve at both large and small organizations, with specific opportunities to lead in and through times of major change and transition; in environments of high growth, merger, start-up, repositioning, branding, and leadership transition.
I truly believe God has called me to serve and lead at TOLI. One of my earnest prayers is that he would allow me to apply the experience and gifts he’s given me to this ministry and empower people to be the best God has for them. It is my hope and prayer that the Lord will use my prayers and experience to accomplish his purposes and plans for TOLI – all for His Glory!
God is always only faithful, and I look forward to what He has in store in the days ahead.
With joy in serving the Lord,
Don Paterson
Executive Director