Our Staff
Michael Acker, Executive Director
At a young age, Michael’s parents became committed followers of Christ. They left behind drug smuggling and new-age witchcraft to lead a life dedicated to service through YWAM, community involvement, and full-time missionary work in Mexico.
Their dedication marked Michael’s life and helped set him on a path toward ministry. After college and nearly twenty years of Pastoral ministry, Michael ventured into corporate sales and executive communication coaching, while still volunteering at GO for a season and at their local church.
In 2023, Michael and Taylor began a conversation with the leadership board of GO ultimately becoming the Executive Director at Go On The Mission, committed to aiding impoverished children and breaking the cycle of poverty.
Favorite part of working at GO:
Building relationships with people across the world and seeing the power of partnership.
Favorite Quote:
“Where you are is not where you have stay.”
Hannah Snelling, International Relations & Operations Director
Hannah spent 15 years as a professional youth worker before joining the team at GO. Through her years of serving in various churches she gained a deepening sense of call toward mission. As a seminary student, she spent time discerning where God was calling her next, assuming she would serve as an associate pastor in a church somewhere, helping to shape the outreach ministry.
From the first time Hannah went to Mazatlán with GO, however, she began to yearn for the opportunity to work with the organization, serving those in need. She never dreamed that God would call her to serve in an organization rather than a traditional church, but she could not be happier that He did. She is passionate about the work we do at GO on the Mission, helping people connect with children in need throughout the world.
Favorite part of working at GO:
Being a part of helping to lift children out of poverty everyday!
Favorite Quote:
“Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe.’” (Mark 5:36)
Megan Aguilar, Sponsorship & Communications Director
Megan grew up in the sweet tranquility of small town life in Centralia, Washington. Her family attended church each Sunday, where Megan fell in love with the Lord. She attended the University of Washington, following her passion for science and the pursuit of laboratory research in oncology and autoimmune disorders.
Over numerous visits with her husband Pedro’s extended family in Argentina, Megan discovered her love for Latin American cultures. After 10 years of working in a lab doing the research she loved, Megan felt the Lord calling her into a new adventure, working in a new field. Having been a long-time supporter of GO on the Mission, and a passionate advocate for seeing children break the cycle of poverty into which they were born, she jumped at the chance to work for GO.
Favorite part of working at GO:
Working at an organization I have long supported!
Favorite Quote:
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” -Ghandi
Trista Simmons, Sponsorship &Trip Coordinator
Trista went on her first mission trip as a young adult alongside a group from her church, a journey that would shape her life profoundly. It was during this mission trip that she met her now-husband, creating a bond strengthened by shared values and a commitment to serving others.
For over 15 years, Trista has contributed her skills and heart to her church, serving as the Office Catalyst. Her role allows her to play a pivotal part in the church's operations, fostering a sense of community and connection among its members. Trista's connection to Mazatlán blossomed during annual trips with the youth group ten years ago, working with GO to bring support to the local community. The vibrant city and its people left an indelible mark on her heart, leading to lasting friendships that enriched her life. Despite her deep love for Mazatlán, Trista's horizons expanded when she visited Senegal and found herself forging meaningful relationships in a new cultural context. The beauty of Senegal and the warmth of its people captured Trista's heart, showcasing her capacity to love and connect with diverse communities.
Passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty, Trista discovered her calling in the administrative side of GO on the Mission, where she channels her skills to make a difference in the lives of children.