Help Gilles return to the U.S. After Serving in Africa

Hello friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

My name is Gilles, and I’m reaching out with a humble and heartfelt request.

After earning a PhD in Water Resources from Ball State University in Indiana, I made a life-changing decision. I gave up the comfort and stability of an academic career in the U.S. — and what many called “the American dream” — to return to Africa. I felt a deep calling to serve vulnerable communities who still lack access to one of the most basic human rights: clean water.

For the past six years, I’ve poured my life into this mission — traveling to over 30 countries, working in some of the most difficult regions of the world, and helping governments and NGOs bring clean water, food security, and hope to the underserved. Most recently, I was based in Niger with Action Against Hunger, supporting women and children affected by malnutrition and the devastating impacts of drought in the Sahel.

But in February 2025, my role was abruptly cut due to major U.S. foreign aid budget reductions. With no warning, I lost my job. As you can imagine, this has been a painful transition. While I remain incredibly grateful for the privilege of serving others — often at great personal cost — this work has taken a heavy toll on my physical and mental health. I now recognize this season as a turning point, and I believe it is time to return to the United States to find restoration, purpose, and direction for what comes next.

Here’s where I need your help.

I’m currently staying with family in Paris, but I am unable to work legally in France. I hold U.S. permanent residency, and I know that once I return, I’ll be able to get back on my feet and find a job aligned with my skills and calling — but I need help to get there.

I’m asking for $5,000 to help cover:

$1,500 for my flight from Paris to the U.S.

$3,500 for basic living expenses (housing, transportation, food) for the first couple of months while I search for work and reestablish myself.

I’ve exhausted my savings over the past three months. This support would not only help me return home — it would also give me the breathing room I need to heal, reflect, and step into this next chapter with strength and clarity.

Why give?

If you’ve ever known me, you know my heart is for people. I’ve spent years serving the most forgotten, often putting their needs ahead of my own. Now, I’m humbly asking for a bit of that same kindness and generosity to help me in this time of transition.

If you can give — whether $20 or $200 — I would be deeply grateful. And if you can’t give, your prayers, encouragement, or simply sharing this page would mean the world.

I’m looking forward to reconnecting with many of you once I’m back in the U.S. and beginning this next chapter — one I believe God has been preparing me for all along.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being part of this journey.

With love and gratitude,

Gilles