​​

Ever since 2012, while selling educational literature in the city of Asheville and surrounding counties, Josef came in close contact with the people of the area. He and his wife, Kathie, greatly valued the local organic farms and plant-based restaurants and sought to support the health-conscious lifestyle of the locals and visitors alike.

​

The unexpected and catastrophic impact of hurricane Helene was a grim reminder to all of the fragility of life and personal well-being. With their background in community services and natural health care, Josef and Kathie are increasing their efforts to help the people recover and enjoy the proven way to hope, health and happiness.

​

Josef served in various capacities as

• high school teacher in Germany and Switzerland

• pastor in Canada

• Editor of an international publishing house in the USA

• regional vice president of family care homes in WNC

• area director of WNC Community Services

• hospital chaplain & crisis intervention counselor

​

Kathie has decades of service as a

• full-time registered nurse at hospitals in FL and NC

• licensed therapeutic message therapist

• professional distributor of quality health care products

​​

Together,

Josef and Kathie founded "Steps of Mercy WNC" as a 508(c)(1)(a) faith-based nonprofit organization. Both volunteer as directors, presenters, and trainers to grow this ministry throughout the region.