01/14/2026
In 2021, when Zeke was just 15 years old, our family was invited to a friend’s home for dinner. That evening, we met Dr. Ronald Kaluya, Founder and Executive Director of Uganda Counseling and Support Services (UCSS) in Bulike, Uganda.
Ronald is an incredible human being, faithful, compassionate, and deeply committed to loving people and serving God. As he shared stories of the work God is doing through UCSS, the evening became more than a dinner conversation; it became a calling moment for Zeke. On the drive home, Zeke asked: "Dad, do you think we could ever go to Uganda and serve with Ronald and his team?"
At the time, it was 2021. COVID was in full swing. Our family had just relocated from Georgia to Missouri to pastor a local church. And Zeke was only 15. I wasn’t sure he was ready for some of what he might see or experience in Uganda, so my answer was honest but cautious: "Not this year, buddy. But maybe one day."
Since then, we’ve had multiple opportunities to reconnect with Ronald while he’s been in the States, sharing about UCSS. And every time, without fail, Zeke has asked the same question: “Hey Dad, think we could go next summer?” And every year, my answer has been the same: “Maybe one day.”
Well... “one day” is here!
Zeke will turn 20 this year, and I believe he is more than ready, spiritually, emotionally, and personally, to serve in Uganda. We’ve been invited to travel with a mixed group representing several local churches, June 22–July 8, 2026, to serve alongside UCSS in their ongoing ministry.
As you can imagine, a trip like this is a significant financial investment. The estimated cost is approximately $4,000 per person, covering travel, lodging, meals, and ministry expenses. But while the cost is substantial, we believe the ministry impact and life shaping experiences will be invaluable.
Would you consider contributing toward the cost of our trip to help lighten the financial burden on our family? If so, we have set up a GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/f00cc3d29
And if giving financially isn’t possible right now, would you commit to praying for our team as we prepare, travel, serve, and return home safely?
We would also ask you to pray specifically for Ronald, his family, his staff, and the people UCSS serves every day. They have a wonderful website that shares their mission and current work. Simply search, "Uganda Counseling and Support Services."
Thank you for supporting us, whether through giving, prayer, or encouragement, as we step into this long awaited, highly anticipated opportunity to serve together.
God bless you,
Ben (& Zeke)
In 2021, when our son Zeke was just 15, our family met Dr. Ronald Kaluya, Founder and Executiv… Ben Lee needs your support for Serving Together In Uganda 2026