Darin Bontrager

I’m from Archbold, Ohio. I went to Goshen College and graduated in 2013.

I work for Mennonite Disaster Service, a non-profit organization connected to the Anabaptist church. We respond to natural disasters across the United States and Canada using volunteer labor. My role in that company is as a regional operations coordinator. There are about 10 states where I help local volunteers. Part of what I do is recruit volunteers, and I also do training across the region. I’m on the road about 50 percent of the time.

Working at the Goshen Woodworkers Guild is something I enjoy. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the guys who are part of that – a lot of really great mentors as I learn my way around woodworking. I also enjoy getting out and running. The millrace, Fidler Pond, the Pumpkinvine Trail – there are a lot of good trails. I like to hang out with friends and family. I do Ultimate Frisbee on Sunday afternoons at Goshen College, too.

In any community, it’s the people who make the difference. I’ve developed friendships with some pretty incredible people from Goshen. Goshen also has a great restaurant scene. There are lots of ways to create a sense of community here, depending on what your interests are.