Young Life - Southwest Michigan

Mission: To introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith. We aim to achieve this by reaching out to young people, crossing barriers and building bridges of acceptance and support.

Young Life begins with caring adults building authentic friendships with kids by meeting them where they are, on their turf and in their culture. These relationships require time, trust, and consistency, as leaders listen to kids’ stories, celebrate their joys, and support them through challenges. By sharing God’s love and believing in their potential, leaders help kids realize their worth and purpose. This connection often becomes the foundation for a lifelong journey, shaping the choices and values that impact their futures, from careers to families.

Everyone is welcome in Young Life! Our programs are custom made for kids throughout their adolescent years. High school students participate in Young Life, while middle schoolers join WyldLife, and college students engage in Young Life College. The organization also includes specialized ministries, such as Capernaum for kids with disabilities, YoungLives for teen moms, and Club Beyond for military teens in partnership with Military Community Youth Ministries. Additionally, Young Life serves diverse cultural communities, economically-depressed areas, and small towns with populations under 25,000 through its multicultural and Small Towns initiatives.

Young Life Club – We like to think of it as a party with a purpose. It’s controlled chaos that’s almost impossible to describe, but kids know it when they see it. And before the party ends, we share a simple message about God’s love for them. After all, that’s what the celebration is all about.

Young Life Camp – A week where deep relationships are forged in the midst of mind-boggling fun and where you experience and listen to what we believe is the greatest love story ever told

Campaigners is a weekly gathering for kids who wish to learn more or grow in their faith through study, service, and leadership. We encourage kids to celebrate their faith through participation in a local congregation.

Committee of Adults Who Care – In each community, the local “committee,” comprised of parents, Young Life alumni and civic leaders, provides a foundation of financial, administrative and moral support for the local Young Life team.