Redeem The Dream

Hi, my name is Dan. Redeem The Dream is the story of how I discovered my peace, hope, and calling. Journey with the teenage me via a one-way ticket from Germany to Oregon in pursuit of a basketball dream. Upon arriving, nothing works out as planned. It is the beginning of a long learning process of figuring out who I am, navigating adversity, and the constant reality of how God works all things out for the good of those who love Him.

Hi, my name is Dan. When I landed in Portland, Oregon at the age of sixteen with a one-way ticket from Düsseldorf, Germany, life changed in an instant. The family who committed to picking me up and hosting me did not show up at the airport. I had to learn to rely on God for my survival as returning to Germany was not an acceptable option. Redeem The Dream is a story of the years to follow. It is a testimony to God's faithfulness in every circumstance. He will work all things out for the good of those who love him. Regardless of where you may find yourself in life, this book will encourage you to process your journey, move forward with hope, and believe in your calling. Questions for personal reflection at the end of each chapter are designed to assist you in connecting the dots of your own story. There is always hope!

Born and raised in Germany, Daniel Marsden moved to the United States at 16 to pursue his dream of playing basketball. His journey from high school to college, and then to the 2BBL - Germany's second-highest level of basketball, was cut short by a devastating knee injury. Yet, this challenge led him to discover his true passion - helping those in need. In 2012, Daniel became a youth and associate pastor in Indiana, and later founded Redeem The Dream, Inc., a youth outreach organization focused on aiding marginalized teens. Today, he serves as a sworn member of the Louisville Metro Police Department, driven by his personal experiences and his wife Ariane's past to fight against human trafficking. Daniel holds a B.S. in Counseling Psychology and Bible Theology from William Jessup University, has completed graduate courses in Organizational Leadership at Mid America Christian University, and is ordained by the Church of God, Anderson. Married since December 2012, Daniel and Ariane are proud parents to four beautiful children. His journey from a determined young athlete to a devoted protector and supporter of the marginalized is reflected in his compelling narratives.