A Father's Call: Caleb Smagacz’s Journey of Purpose and Leadership in Uganda

Fatherhood is a calling to guide, nurture, and reflect the heart of God. For our Executive Director Caleb Smagacz, this calling has extended far beyond his own family, shaping his journey from Omaha, Nebraska, to Uganda, where he faithfully leads Hope Alive!.

When Caleb and his wife Suz moved to Uganda in February 2017, they were filled with a passion for serving children and families. With faith in God’s call but no clear roadmap, they dedicated themselves to learning the language and culture of Uganda. Over time, God’s purpose became unmistakable. In 2020, Caleb accepted the position of Executive Director with Hope Alive!, a ministry devoted to meeting the holistic needs of Uganda’s children through a Christ-centered sponsorship program.

Caleb says, “At Hope Alive!, we care for, mentor, and empower these children to grow into the people God created them to be.”

A Heart for the Fatherless

Caleb’s passion for children and families is rooted in his own upbringing and faith. Caleb was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska. He lived with a single mother who struggled with mental illness and couldn’t manage regular employment. They were on welfare and often visited the food pantries to see what was for dinner. He knows what it is like to depend on strangers for survival and on the church for love and a sense of belonging--just like many of the children in Hope Alive!

Before moving to Uganda, Caleb served nearly a decade as the children’s pastor at Westside Church in Omaha; he developed a deep understanding of the importance of a well-run organization to support life-giving ministry. His convictions and passions led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Bible from Moody Bible Institute and a Master of Arts in Global Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary.

In his role with Hope Alive!, Caleb combines his pastoral heart with strategic leadership. Under his guidance, the ministry continues to grow, engaging children holistically by addressing their spiritual, physical, educational, emotional, and social needs.

“Every child desperately needs to know they are loved, valued, and created for a purpose,” Caleb shares. “With my life, I aim to make that truth a reality.”

A Father's Impact

As a father of three, Caleb’s life is a testimony to the power of leading by example. Alongside his wife Suzanne, who has developed an interior design ministry to support missionaries in Uganda, Caleb has created a family culture of service and compassion. Their home is a welcoming space, a haven for their children and others, reflecting Suz’s gift for hospitality and her heart for helping missionaries thrive.

“Our family’s journey hasn’t been without challenges,” Caleb admits. “But through it all, we’ve seen God’s faithfulness and His provision. It’s a privilege to share that same hope and assurance with the children and families we serve.”

A Vision for the Future

As Caleb leads Hope Alive! into the future, his vision remains firmly rooted in the Gospel. Whether mentoring staff, working with local churches, or engaging with the children in the program, Caleb sees every interaction as an opportunity to reflect God’s fatherly love. 

Caleb’s story reminds us that being a father extends beyond biology—it is about stepping into lives, offering love and guidance, and pointing others to the perfect love of our Heavenly Father.