We’re excited to announce Nathan Roels (pictured left) and Richard Boonstra (pictured right) as the newest members of Crossroads’ board of directors. Both Nathan and Richard share a deep commitment to supporting incarcerated people and their families. Join us in welcoming them to the Crossroads family!
Nathan Roels
Hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Nathan Roels is a storyteller at heart. A 2017 graduate of Calvin University with a degree in Film and Media and minors in Business and Spanish, Nathan owns and operates Second Mile Video. Through his work, he has produced videos for businesses, nonprofits, and ministries, and he has created award-winning documentaries that explore themes of justice and restoration.
Nathan’s commitment to justice and restoration extends beyond filmmaking. Currently a third-year Master of Divinity student at Calvin Theological Seminary, he serves as a chaplain at Exalta Health, a ministry providing spiritual care to underserved communities. His dual passions for storytelling and spiritual care drive his work, and he is excited to channel this energy into Crossroads’ mission.
Nathan is married and a proud father of two young sons. His passion for faith-based initiatives, mentorship, and supporting incarcerated people and their families will undoubtedly bring fresh perspectives and creativity to Crossroads.
Richard Boonstra
Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Richard Boonstra’s life has been deeply rooted in service and faith. After attending Roseland Christian School and Chicago Christian High School, Richard pursued higher education at Trinity Christian College, Calvin University, and Purdue University, earning degrees in mathematics and engineering.
Richard’s career took him and his wife, Trena, to San Diego, where he worked as an engineer at General Atomics and raised their four children. While living in California, Richard served as a deacon and elder in several Christian Reformed churches and was a board member at Calvin Christian School. His love for music and service has always been central to his life, and he has sung in church choirs for decades, a passion inspired by his father.
Richard’s journey with Crossroads began in 2003 when a presentation at his church inspired him to become a mentor. Since then, he has faithfully mentored students and, after retiring and relocating to Grand Rapids in 2017, began volunteering in the Crossroads office. Richard has also participated in Bible studies and worship services with men incarcerated at Handlon Prison in Ionia. His years of mentoring experience, combined with his heart for ministry, make him a valuable addition to the board.