In an increasingly virtual world, Young Life is called to be a real alternative. Although the outcomes are deep, our work is simple: we build true relationships.

Everything we do is intended to connect people to each other and then, in friendship, to God. We fulfill our mission by going where kids are, building trust to earn the chance to be heard, and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ in terms and contexts that are inclusive and relatable. We disciple kids so they can connect to local churches and begin a lifelong pursuit of Jesus into adulthood.

Young Life isn’t about a program. It’s about adults caring enough for kids to go to them, on their turf and in their culture, building bridges of authentic friendship. Relationships don’t happen overnight. Our work takes​ time, patience, trust, and consistency. The downstream impacts last for decades into eternity. That means we’re in this for the long haul… always thinking about and planning for the future even as we minister to kids by being present today.

What Young Life does is create a steady, hopeful presence among students that’s inspired by the Gospel. We do this through a plan of activity we refer to as our “5 Cs.” 

  • This is how area Staff and volunteers invest in and connect with kids. In a single word it means friendship. We become cheerleaders and advisors, listeners and advocates, mentors and friends. The goal is to be a trusted and influential presence in every community we enter.

  • This is our consistent party with a purpose. Young Life aims to be the best night of the week for students who attend. We deliver on this goal by meeting in environments that are welcoming and planning experiences that spark joy and laughter. 

  • This is a weekly time to grow in faith through study, service, and leadership for students who are ready to engage Young Life and their spiritual growth at a deeper level.  

  • This is the best week of kids’ lives. We bring students and adults together for fun and friendship at best-in-class destinations where every detail shouts, “Welcome home!” The activities are larger than life and the stepping stones to faith are life changing.

  • This is a group of adults who provide financial stability and local credibility for each Young Life Area team. These parents, Young Life alums, and civic leaders are the driving force behind our success. They open doors, gather resources, and cheer on Staff and Leaders.

OUR MISSION + VALUES

The mission of Young Life is introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith. Our values are essential. We filter every opportunity, strategy, investment, and advancement through our commitments to:

THE GOSPEL
Living according to and communicating the whole gospel of Jesus Christ.

SCRIPTURE
Acting under the authority of Scripture and relying on the Holy Spirit to empower our ministry.

ALL KIDS
Reaching adolescents of every ability and all economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.

ECUMENICAL
Collaborating with followers of Christ from various traditions and local churches worldwide.

DIVERSITY
Welcoming those whom God calls to our mission – men and women of all ethnicities and abilities who are committed to the common purpose of introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith.

STEWARDSHIP
Observing the highest standards of stewardship of all the resources placed in our trust.

HEALTH
Encouraging our Staff and volunteers in their personal and spiritual health so we may minister out of a consistent and growing relationship with Christ and His followers.

THE NEXT KID
Developing innovative approaches to reach uncommitted, disinterested young people around the world.