Hans was born in the Netherlands and entered the USA lawfully in 1968. His family became acquainted with the Unitarian Church, when in search of religious education for their children. In 1979, they joined the church and benefited from The Church of the Larger Fellowship (CLF) while living in Singapore in the following years. Returning from a foreign assignment, Hans then participated in various activities. In recent years the value of small group ministry and the Brown Bag lunch program has become clearer and more significant. Being part of such groups creates contacts, bonds and friendships. Working on projects, like furniture repair, book sale and others offered connections with other Unitarians. His business background is in Plastics and Marketing, with multicultural experiences. Helping less fortunate people in other
countries has been part of his life, such as with UNICEF and UNHCR.