Mike was born and raised in Kansas City, MO. When it came time for college, he moved out to Durango, CO and has lived there ever since. He has worked with many ministries during his time in Durango including Young Life, youth and college groups at a local church, and Climbing for Christ both domestically and overseas. Mike has served on the campus of Fort Lewis College for over 20 years.

Rachel grew up in Serbia and Croatia during the war years, the daughter of missionaries. When she was 13 years-old, her family moved to Colorado Springs. Eventually, Rachel made her way to Durango. Over the years, Rachel has worked with orphans in Eastern Europe, local college ministries in Durango, and Climbing for Christ locally and overseas. She has been involved with Challenge since 2011.