Vanhorn Mission Trip

Serving with Purpose: Attorney Van Horn’s Mission Trip to Panama

At Van Horn Law Firm, the belief that service should extend beyond the courtroom has long been a guiding principle. This summer, Attorney Van Horn took that belief to heart—literally and geographically—as he joined Holy Trinity Anglican Church of Raleigh, NC on a mission trip to Panama. The journey, which took him nearly 1,800 miles south, was about more than travel. It was a powerful step into a community-centered experience rooted in faith, humility, and hands-on service.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church is known not only for its strong theological foundation but also for its active commitment to outreach, both locally and globally. The church places a high value on mission work, regularly organizing service trips that reflect their core beliefs: glorifying God, loving others, and living with integrity. For Attorney Van Horn, who shares these values both personally and professionally, the opportunity to serve alongside this faith community was a natural and deeply meaningful fit.

During the mission trip, the team partnered with local leaders and organizations in Panama to support children and families in underserved areas. Much of their work focused on engaging with local kids—hosting activities, sharing stories, helping with basic needs, and simply offering a presence of care and encouragement. In places where access to education, healthcare, and even daily essentials can be limited, the gift of time and attention can be just as impactful as physical resources.

Attorney Van Horn was quick to note how humbling and inspiring it was to work alongside fellow members of Holy Trinity. Each person brought something unique to the team—whether it was teaching, organizing, leading prayer, or lifting up others with quiet, steady kindness. It was a reminder that service doesn’t always need to be grand or loud to be powerful. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, listening, and connecting.

“This experience reminded me that leadership isn’t always about taking charge,” Attorney Van Horn shared. “Sometimes, it’s about stepping back, being present, and letting others know they’re seen and valued.”

For Attorney Van Horn, this trip was more than just an act of service—it was a return to the roots of why he chose to enter the legal profession in the first place: to advocate, to serve, and to stand up for others. This mission trip echoed many of the same values he brings into his legal practice here in Raleigh: compassion, integrity, and a commitment to doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Holy Trinity Anglican’s emphasis on spiritual formation, service, and community responsibility aligns deeply with Attorney Van Horn’s approach to both life and law. “My faith doesn’t just guide how I live but it shapes how I lead,” he shares. “Whether I’m with clients or on a mission trip, I believe integrity, compassion, and service should be at the center of everything I do.” No matter the setting—volunteering abroad or advising a client at home—his goal remains the same: to act with purpose, care, conviction, and strength.

This trip may have taken him far from the courtroom, but in many ways, it brought him closer to what matters most.

Authored by Dhruvi C