Who We Are
While living in Jenison, Michigan, John and Marcia Evans opened their home to adults with mental disabilities; for no other reason than to share their company. As time went on, it be came apparent that this wasn’t just about sharing company… but about filling a need. Five years later, they bought a small farm in Allendale to continue this desire to serve. John and Marcia have responded to the calling God has given them, and as of June 2016, John left his company to work full time at Bethesda Farm. Bethesda Farm is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
Bethesda Farms offers activities that uncover potential. Their programs are designed to “enjoy the challenge” of gaining ground. Overseen by John and Marcia, and supported by very qualified staff volunteers who know it's their calling, and have chosen to serve here at Bethesda Farm. They are a big part of Bethesda's respected reputation as a premier destination for adults with mental disabilities in West Michigan.
John's Bio
In 1998, John founded Storytelling Pictures, a video production company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, serving clients as Family Life Today, World Orphan, Wycliffe Associates and many international foundations. He is the director of the documentary “The Reckoning,” which highlights the heroic acts of the Dutch Resistance during WWII. John has worked in 28 different countries, giving him first-hand experience working through language barriers. John and Marcia have responded to the calling to do this full time and in June 2016, John left his company to join his wife in working full time at Bethesda Farm.
Marcia's Bio
Marcia attended California School of Health Sciences and pursued work with adults and children with mental disabilities. She has 25+ years of experience working directly with the students. Throughout her career, Marcia has been involved with Spectrum Health Mental Development, Jenison Special Education, and Harbor House Ministries. Her gift of compassion and patience allows God to touch deeply without the clutter of words.
“Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.”
- Hebrews 12:12-13
"Every once in a while, God graces me with the friendship of some of His very best; folks that love Him dearly and have given their lives to serve Him. John and Marcia Evans are such friends. They have left the world of corporate success for a world of dependency on God, and to serve some of the most precious people on the planet." - Rachel Bruuersma
