SERVING FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN WHO HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS with Jamie Koesema

In this Episode of DEFENDING THE FAITH, Frank Harber interviews Jamie Koesema about the R[4] Retreat Center.

Learn about the amazing R[4] Retreat Center!

The need for real connection and community support for families affected by special needs is undeniable! Why? There are often multiple services available for their children but little to no community support for them so parents/caregivers can feel extremely overwhelmed and very alone.

R[4] is working hard to change that!

Jamie Koesema is the Founder and CEO of R[4] Retreat Center, a nonprofit organization that serves families with children who have special needs. She is passionate about listening to the needs of caregivers and creating meaningful opportunities for them to feel seen, heard, loved, and connected. R[4]’s goal is to build a strong community among the families it serves, providing them with a consistent and safe place to find support, resources, and encouragement as they advocate for their loved ones.

Raised in Grand Rapids, MI, Jamie comes from a strong Christian family and learned early on the importance of opening her heart to the underserved in the community. Growing up, her family’s home was always open to those society often cast aside—people experiencing homelessness, prostitutes, and individuals struggling with addiction. The example set by her parents—their sacrifice and relentless pursuit of sharing God’s love with those in need—became the foundation for the work she does today through R[4] Retreat Center.

Now based near Dallas, TX, Jamie works hard to balance her calling at R[4] with her family life. She has been married to her husband, John, for 35 years. He serves as the Director of Operations at Dallas Life, a faith-based homeless shelter in downtown Dallas. Together, they are the proud parents of their incredibly talented adult daughter, Ashley, who currently resides in Kentucky. Jamie’s father, Earl, lives with them in their home in the Dallas suburbs and has played a key role in the formation and development of R[4] over the years.

Connect with Jamie Koesema:
📧 Email: jkoesema@r4retreatcenter.org
🌐 Website: www.r4retreatcenter.org
📌 Facebook: /r4retreatcenter
📷 Instagram: @R4RetreatCenter