Embracing Mission, Adoption, and Culture in Belize with Tim Zittle

Embracing Mission, Adoption, and Culture in Belize with Tim Zittle

Summary:

Tim and Jen’s 27-year marriage and their family’s adoption journey, including three special needs adoptions from China, as well as the call that led them to Belize and the realities of adapting to a new culture as a missionary family. Tim shares what it has looked like to raise children with special needs while navigating healthcare, education, and ministry overseas, and he explains the story behind Three D Friends and its mission to support special needs families in Belize. The conversation also highlights how events like Night to Shine are creating inclusion and dignity for individuals with disabilities, while also encouraging fathers and men in Belize to become more engaged in family life and faith leadership. Tim reflects on Joshua’s rare diagnosis and how God used a difficult season to bring clarity, provision, and deeper trust, while emphasizing the importance of obedience, resilience, and cultural understanding in long-term missions work. He also shares the future vision for camps, therapy centers, and expanded support for children with special needs and their families.