Steve Parker
Board President
Steve Parker was born and raised in southern New Jersey where he graduated from Lenape Regional High School in 1975. In that same year he began his undergraduate studies at Montana State University and graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management. In 1980 he began his gradute studies at the University of Wyoming and graduated in 1986 with a Master of Science degree in Geology and Geophysics. While in graduate school he met his future wife, Jeanne, in 1985 and they were married in 1986. After 34 years of marriage and two sons, Remington and Jordan, Steve is still richly in love with his bride.
With 34 years of construction materials experience, Steve presently oversees the Cement Additives business unit for CHRYSO Inc in North America. He is the recipient of numerous industry awards including recognition as one of The Five Most Influential Leaders in the Concrete Industry in 2008 and in 2018 he received the most prestigious Award of Merit from the American Society for Testing Materials for his leadership and technical contributions. Steve did not necessarily seek out serving at Hope Rescue Mission as much as the Lord clearly led him to get involved. It was a transformative moment and has proven to be richly rewarding to contribute to the Hope Rescue Mission effort in western Montana; bringing a likewise transformative change to those in need of such change. A change that only God can bring.
JAKE MISCHKE
BOARD VICE PRESIDENT
Jake Mischke is Clinical Faculty and the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency Director at the University of Montana School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science. Jake holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Exercise Science from the University of Nebraska, a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Creighton University, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Montana.
Jake and Mary Mischke were married in 2015 and have two young children, Emma and Mason. They enjoy playing in Montana’s outdoors, cheering for the Grizzlies, and spending time with family. Jake grew up in a Christian household and was saved at a young age. He enjoys seeing God’s glory and mercy daily and relishes watching God work wonders through Hope Rescue Mission (HRM). He has been involved with HRM since 2016 and is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the HRM team to serve, rescue, and transform those in need by the grace of Jesus Christ.
ALEX BURKHALTER
BOARD MEMBER
A graduate of Missoula Big Sky High School and the University of Montana, Alex loves Missoula and the people who make it special. His wife of 15 years, Erica and their three middle and elementary aged children are the Missoulians he loves the most. As a family they spend weekends camping and playing at lakes in the summer and downhill skiing in the winter. In between all that fun, Alex specializes in the development of affordable rental housing using federal programs all across Montana and surrounding states. When not playing with family or working, Alex loves to ride mountain bikes; always looking for one more climb followed by an adrenaline filled race back to the bottom. First in his life, adding joy and color to all other areas, is his love and gratitude for Jesus Christ and the incredible act of redemption and love shown by Him made available to all who place their faith in Him.
or all who respond to the grace of Jesus Christ.
JONATHAN HOWIE
BOARD MEMBER
Jonathan is grateful to be a part of the Board of Directors for Hope Rescue Mission. Indeed, my life was “saved” by grace back in 2000 and I have been a faithful follower of Jesus since then.
Jonathan is an entrepreneur and business owner here in Missoula. He has nearly 25 years in business experience and feel called that he can make an impact for God’s kingdom through business. Jonathan’s hobbies include running, cycling, and exercise. He loves to play golf, ride motorcycles, and generally just have a good time with our closest friends. He also has a passion for music and has been a worship leader, playing guitar and singing for local churches.
Jonathan and Amy have been married for 15 years and he is the father of 3 amazing daughters.
AMY HOWIE
BOARD MEMBER
Amy and her family are relatively new to the beautiful town of Missoula. Her and her family packed up their lives and moved here in 2014 from Colorado when her and her husband, Jonathan, felt God calling them to start a life in Montana. Amy is passionate about many things including traveling around our country and worldwide, building relationships with people and making them smile, mountain biking and pretty much any activity that involves mountains and lakes. On any given day, Amy, Jonathan and their girls are out exploring new and beautiful sights around Montana. Amy is a former middle school and high school teacher of 13 years but has recently quit teaching to help her husband grow his e-commerce business. Amy is thrilled to be a part of Hope Rescue Mission and looks forward to how God will continue to move in this community!
MARK BRADFORD
BOARD MEMBER
Mark Bradford was born and raised in the picturesque landscapes of Missoula, Montana. Mark’s life journey has been marked by a deep sense of purpose and an unwavering dedication to helping others.
Mark’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education, with a focus on mathematics and health, which he earned from Whitworth College in 1999. His passion for education led him to teach junior high and high school math at Valley Christian in Missoula from 1999 to 2003. During this time, he played a pivotal role in shaping young minds and instilling a love for learning.
In 2001, Mark embarked on another life-changing journey when he married his beloved Cristy, who shares his roots in Missoula and his commitment to community betterment. In 2003, driven by a desire to broaden his horizons, Mark returned to academia to earn a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a specialization in structural engineering from Montana State University.
Since 2007, Mark has been practicing his expertise as a structural engineer with DCI Engineers, consistently delivering exceptional solutions in his field. His professional achievements and dedication to excellence have made him a respected figure in the engineering community.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mark is a devoted family man, cherishing the moments spent exploring the natural beauty of Missoula and the outdoors with his wife and three children. His love for his community and the environment is evident in everything he does.
Mark’s passion for community service extends far and wide. He actively volunteers in various initiatives, working tirelessly to combat hunger, promote affordable housing, and provide support to refugees settling in Missoula. His commitment to giving back doesn’t stop at the city limits; Mark has also volunteered his engineering skills in Haiti, where he contributed to building homes and schools for orphans and street children.
Central to Mark’s values is the belief that every individual is valued, loved, and possesses a unique purpose in God’s eyes. This belief drives his dedication to serving those in need and making a positive impact in his community.