Impactful “ah-ha” moments where we felt truly blessed to do what we do – whether at a food event, during a Hope Zone visit, a playground build, or even a beautiful interaction alongside those we’re serving. These are the heartbeats behind KATW, and we’re honored to share them. Our prayer and hope is that you, too, will join us – experiencing your own unique “ah-ha” moment.
Battlefield Hardship to Playground HOPE
“My first time in Iraq was as a Marine… fighting insurgents. Now what I do is come back here to work alongside ministries that are on the ground… who want to see these communities thrive.”
For Dan, his “ah-ha” PAYDAY moment happened in a place he never thought he’d return to… war-torn Iraq. But this time, instead of boots on the ground, he carried tools and laughter. Instead of being led by conflict, he was leading with joy.
“What I love is that it’s serving kids… and they had nothing to do with the conflict we found ourselves in.”
Each playground he helps build carries a bigger message: children have value. Childhood itself has value.
“Building playgrounds communicates something to the child. Not only that this is for the child but that there’s a high value on childhood… there’s something valuable about simply being a child.”
And it’s not just the kids who are impacted. Working side by side with local communities creates pride, ownership, and connection that last long after the playground is complete.
At this point, Dan has now helped build more than 100 playgrounds… but his real reward isn’t the number. It’s the smiles, the laughter, and the joy that remind him of God’s beautiful design for PLAY.
👉 WATCH Dan’s full PAYDAY story *HERE
This is what a PAYDAY can look like: when life comes full circle and you’re given the opportunity to return to a place of brokenness and help it heal through hope and joy!
“I think PLAY matters because God created us to be playful. It brings us joy! We were meant to engage in it… and if He thinks it’s good, then I think it’s good.”
Dan Liesik, VP of Operations, brings high energy and heartfelt purpose to what he does. A former military leader, Dan now channels that same drive into helping others live life on mission – joining God in what He’s doing. With sincerity, humor, and conviction, he’s passionate about knowing God and making Him known.
*Video creation courtesy of: www.galtvisual.com
Play is vital to a child’s growth. In places where hardship weighs heavy, play offers joy and restores a child’s sense of wonder.
By transforming playgrounds through upcycling and planting them in communities in need, we give children the chance to thrive, laugh, and simply be a kid.
JOIN US:
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GIVE the gift of play and bring joy to children by sponsoring a playground.
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GO on an international trip and build a playground, seeing firsthand the impact it brings. (No building experience required)
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CELEBRATE the contagious excitement of Dedication Day as children experience what you built for the first time.