A U T U M N Â 2 0 2 4
A Path
FORWARD
In previous Journey Updates this year, we shared with you our excitement surrounding the groundbreaking and landscape architects laying the groundwork for the homes to be raised. In the past month, our strides forward have expanded beyond preparation into beautification! One of our many visions was to include walking paths winding throughout the property so survivors and their children can simply go on walks in nature without fear or interruption. Therapeutically, walking in nature has a host of benefits, so much so that there is an entire branch of therapy called ecotherapy. According to a recent study out of Iceland, walking in nature resulted in lowered cortisol levels and improved mood significantly more than simply watching nature scenes or physical exercise alone.* The simple act of walking in God’s creation can transform into a profound journey of healing and reflection.Â
Walking creates a rhythmic movement that allows our neurological system to reset. Additionally, being outside (no matter the weather) helps improve mood, reduces feelings of stress or anger, helps us feel more relaxed, improves physical health, increases confidence and self-esteem, and reduces loneliness. Natural beauty inspires creativity and contemplation in unique and powerful ways. Having these paths accessible exclusively for the women we serve will be an extra step available to them in their healing journey day in and day out.Â
God has designed nature with an innate ability to soothe the mind and promote a sense of peace. With this in mind, the nature paths on the property have begun their curation! We can already envision the women God will bring to Zeteo Community being free to take time alone, engage in prayer walks, or simply empowered to enjoy peaceful time with a friend, family or staff member. These paths are being prepared with joy and intention for her good and for His glory.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”– Isaiah 43:19
Journey Update connects you to the mission of Zeteo Community: To serve women who have been sexually exploited by providing residential programming and a supportive community in which they are free to dream and thrive.
LEADERSHIP
perspectives
“Busy hands are happy hands” the old adage goes, and we’ve had a busy summer working alongside our army of volunteers beautifying the Zeteo Community property, making it into an oasis of peaceful beauty where those we serve will find healing and hope.
We are continually overwhelmed and humbled by the support from our volunteers, prayer warriors and donors. We have never sought people to fill roles, rather God continues to send people whose roles have already filled them. Many come with amazing talents and skills, but what often blows us away is the sacrificial heart of everyone who has joined us in this work, and for that we say, “Thank you!”
With much love,
Kenton and Marlene
“…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness…”
Isaiah 61:3
CONNECTING
in the Community
Being “community based” is one of the core values of Zeteo Community. This guides us in a commitment to connect with other local organizations and individuals to combat the issue of human trafficking. This past summer we had various opportunities to do just that. We were welcomed by the American Legion, Madison Rotary Club, and Mercies Coffee for our monthly Coffee Connect to share the heart of Zeteo Community with others in our community. Additionally, we served alongside other community organizations through Operation Giving Hope, providing clothing, toiletries, home necessities, and support to individuals and families of Dane County. Through these collaborative efforts, we are not only creating a safer community for survivors but also raising awareness about this critical issue. Together, we are fostering a community united against human trafficking. If you would like to host an awareness or outreach event, please reach out to us! You can be part of the solution, too. Human trafficking is a man-made problem, and it will take each of us working collaboratively and collectively to combat this crime in our community. Let’s get connected!
Moving Forward
TOGETHER
This past month, teams of volunteers within Zeteo Community have rolled up their sleeves to clear the property in preparation for construction. Families, churches, and individuals from all around Dane County and beyond worked together over the past few weekends hauling branches, raking leaves, chopping logs and fallen trees. Their dedication and teamwork not only beautified the property but also brought our community closer together! Thanks to their efforts, we’re one step closer to realizing our vision. We couldn’t have done it without each and every person, from young to old, using their gifts to bring beauty from ashes. Their passion and dedication are a living testimony to the power of community, and this is just the beginning! Let’s keep this momentum going as we move forward together.
Summer 2024
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Spring 2024
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November 2023
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*Olafsdottir, G., Cloke, P., Schulz, A., van Dyck, Z., Eysteinsson, T., Thorleifsdottir, B., & Vögele, C. (2020). Health Benefits of Walking in Nature: A Randomized Controlled Study Under Conditions of Real-Life Stress. Environment and Behavior, 52(3), 248-274. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916518800798