Through the Lens of Service

Story by Lauren Esveld

Two Spencerville Adventist Academy (SAA) seniors recently discovered that faithful service has a way of multiplying. Ethan Tracey and Aiden Zinke volunteered last December for the annual Clark/Davis Breakfast, a community fundraising event that supports Samaritan Inns, a nonprofit that runs longterm recovery programs for individuals rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness, addiction and trauma. As student photographers, they saw behind the scenes of a mission-driven gathering focused on restoration, dignity and hope.

The two seniors arrived early as tables were being set up and hot drinks were being poured. As guests filled the room, Tracey and Zinke quietly documented the morning—capturing speakers, attendees and moments of connection. Their work supported the broader goal of helping Samaritan Inns extend its message beyond those able to attend the event.

For more than 40 years, Samaritan Inns has provided comprehensive recovery programs. Residents not only receive temporary housing but also counseling, peer support, spiritual care and structured time to heal and rebuild their lives. The Clark/Davis Breakfast plays a key role in sustaining this mission by raising both funds and community awareness.

Through photography, the students contributed in a practical way. Their images recorded stories of recovery, generosity and shared commitment. These photos will later be used for outreach, communication and fundraising, allowing the impact of the breakfast to continue well after the event ends.

“Aiden and Ethan showed up ready to serve and do what was needed,” says Rebecca Abraham, an SAA parent and Emmy Award–winning video producer who volunteered her professional media support and helped connect the students with the organization. “This experience allowed them to see how their skills can support a larger mission in a real-world setting.”

The Spencerville community has strong ties with the nonprofit. Jennifer Lalaki, a former SAA teacher and now an administrative coordinator at Samaritan Inns, continues her commitment to service through work focused on long-term recovery. Amanda Rodriguez, CEO of TurnAround, Inc. and a parent of SAA students, highlights the mission of local organizations to support individuals in various healing stages: “Together, that means meeting people with care and support wherever they are.”

Samaritan Inns leadership took note of the student involvement. LeRoy Pingho, executive chair and CEO, describes the presence of Spencerville students and families as a quiet testimony of service, compassion and intentional leadership.

Robert Martinez, SAA principal, says that Ethan and Aiden’s service at the breakfast “demonstrates a core value emphasized at Spencerville Adventist Academy—service, [which] often happens behind the scenes. By contributing their time and skills to a community effort, they help amplify a mission that restores lives—one story and one image at a time.”