Donna is from New England, Paul from the Midwest and we met in California. Our kids were born in Indiana. Our combined
heritage is German, Italian, Russian and Irish. Donna "pocks" her "cahr" and Paul marches (Prussian roots).
First Work
We both moved out to California in the late 70's. Donna started in Vonette Bright's Prayer Office. Paul was part of the
Mass Media department. In 1981 we left California for Indiana to join the campus team at Indiana University. In 1984 two big things happened.
We became parents and moved back to California.
Product Focus
After 15 months back at the headquarters, we realized that our heart was in the field. We left the headquarters for Indiana but with a role that was a combination
of some administrative work for the Indiana campuses, but also helping Steve Douglass launch the "How to Get Better Grades and Have
More Fun" strategy. This led to product distribution, a call center, material production and a variety of othe administrative services.
Integrated Resources
In 1991, Integrated Resources was formally launched and for the next eleven years we distributed thousands of products to our staff and ministries
world wide. This was pre-internet days but we were on the cutting edge of developing and using interactive phone systems and personal computers
to streamline an operation. Audio recording and production became a big part and video production also carried over from thee 80's.
Special Projects
In 2001 Steve Douglass became the president of Cru. With a desire to be a more available to provide creative help, we got out of running and
distribution operation. This allowed Paul to be involved in Special Projects for the President's Office.
There were two initial themes that provided a focus. The first was
the concept of orality -- the use of story and oral methods. The second was a focus on partnerships with other ministries. An example
of a partnership was Paul's involvement in the Cape Town 2010 Lausanne Conference.
What Lies Ahead
As we move into the second decade of the 21st century the focus on partnerships continues with an expanded connection to Cru's
expanding Digital Strategy. Essentials is the first in a whole suite of resources that Paul
is helping to coordinate and release.