Following God’s Call to Care: Riley Chaffee’s Journey to Missionary Nursing in Kenya
At just 12 years old, Riley Chaffee caught her first glimpse of God’s heart for Kenya—and it changed the direction of her life.
While attending a vacation Bible school, Riley listened as a speaker shared about adopting two young girls from Kenya and the hardships they had endured at such a young age. As she heard their stories, something stirred deeply within her. “When I heard this, a chord was struck within me,” Riley recalls. “I knew that I was supposed to do something to help others, specifically in Kenya.”
Though she didn’t yet know how that calling would take shape, Riley sensed God placing her on a path of compassionate service.
A Calling That Led to Nursing
As Riley grew older, that desire to care for others began to take clearer form. Initially drawn to healthcare and considering becoming a doctor, her vision shifted during her sophomore year of high school as she learned more about nursing. She became captivated by the role nurses play—walking closely with people through some of their most difficult moments.
“I realized I felt called to come alongside people and truly help them through their healing process,” she says. “To form bonds while also providing care.” That realization sparked a new passion, one that eventually led Riley to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and work as a registered nurse in both hospital and school settings.
Kenya: A Call Confirmed
Riley’s long‑standing sense that Kenya was central to her calling became unmistakably clear through two short‑term mission trips to the country. On her first trip, she fell in love with the culture, community, and warmth of the people.
“When I left Kenya the first time, I felt like I left part of my heart there,” she shares. “I knew I was already being called back.”
Her second trip deepened that conviction. While serving in a clinic for two months, Riley saw firsthand how God could use her nursing skills in a missions context. Working in healthcare and health education confirmed that this was exactly where God was leading her.
Prepared Through Experience
Riley’s professional background has uniquely equipped her for the ministry ahead. Her time in the hospital sharpened her clinical skills while teaching her empathy, flexibility, and confidence—not only as a nurse, but also in sharing Christ’s love. Her experience in a school setting introduced her to the importance of community health, prevention, and education—key aspects of the work she will do in Kenya.
Together, these experiences have helped prepare her for meaningful, sustainable ministry.
Serving Holistically with Missions of Hope International
As Riley prepares to serve in Kenya with CMF, partnering with Missions of Hope International (MOHI) in medical empowerment, she is eager to come alongside individuals and communities in need.
“I’m excited about all of it,” she says, “but especially serving people and facilitating holistic healing.” For Riley, holistic care means more than treating physical illness—it begins with forming genuine relationships and allowing Christ’s love to shine through everyday interactions. “I hope to be a vessel of Christ,” she shares, “and that He shines through my actions.”
A New Season of Faith and Partnership
Now, as Riley begins raising support, she is stepping into a season that requires faith, patience, and trust in God’s provision. She invites others to partner with her through prayer—specifically for confidence as she shares her story and for continued healing after an unexpected back surgery.
As Riley looks ahead, she does so with gratitude for how God has led her and anticipation for what He will do next. Her journey is just beginning, but her calling—to care, to serve, and to love in Jesus’ name—has been years in the making.