Brent Gieseke supports the growing number of refugees who settle in Kansas City, Mo., many of whom fled war-torn African countries and spent years living in refugee camps. He helps the nonprofit purchase neglected urban homes, then leads the extensive renovation projects to turn them into “Blessing Houses.” Since he’s been involved, Agape Pamoja has grown from four residential homes to 23, with five more currently being remodeled. But perhaps his most important contribution is not about the buildings; it’s about the teen refugees, whom he mentors in construction and life skills. While “Papa Brent” is teaching the young people about home repair and maintenance, he’s also building future leaders.
