History

“

“During my first trip to Africa in 1988, I saw firsthand the effectiveness of God’s servants in their own cultural context. From then on, working in partnership with the global church has been my passion.”

Bob Schindler

Mission ONE Founder

“

Five people kneel outdoors on soil, smiling around a young plant seedling they are planting. They are in a rural, open field with trees and mountains in the background under a sunny sky.

Mission ONE was Born

Mission ONE was founded in 1991 by Bob Schindler, an American traveling evangelist. In 1988, Bob was invited to teach on the subject of evangelism at a Bible college in Kenya. The missionary who invited Bob told him, “You will be a blessing. But while you are here, listen. Learn what it’s like to live as a Kenyan.”

Bob took his advice and met Pastor Wilfred Githongo, who was from a nearby village. Wilfred had heard the gospel, decided to follow Christ, and had planted a church. Previously, Western missionaries had not been able to start a church in Wilfred’s village—the contrast in cultures was too great. Bob thought, “There must be some way to help these local leaders. They can share the love of Christ in their cultures in ways I cannot.” With that, Mission ONE was born.

Who We Are & What We Do

Mission ONE exists to see communities transformed to look more like the Kingdom of God, spiritually, physically, and sustainably through the local church.

Icon of a globe with two encircling arrows on a teal background.

We Partner with Local Leaders

We build deep, trusting relationships with missionaries and leaders who are already serving within their own cultural contexts. Through ongoing training, encouragement, and support, we strengthen the local church from within.

Icon of three human figures in a row with arrows circling them.

We Multiply Faith Communities

We help believers come together as the body of Christ to make disciples and live out the gospel in everyday life. These faith communities take shape within local cultures and continue multiplying throughout generations.

Teal icon featuring a white outline of a plant in a square pot and a small sprout connected by a circular arrow.

We Walk with Communities Toward Wholeness

Alongside local faith communities, we address real spiritual and physical needs. We support healing in ways that restore dignity and build resilience. The result is communities that are healthier, more hopeful, and equipped to thrive long-term.

Get Involved With Mission ONE

Join us as we equip and train the Global Church to transform communities in hard places.