About YouthWorks

We create experiences that empower this generation to love their neighbors.

Our Vision

A world where Christ-followers are known for hospitality, service, and justice.

Our Values

As we live out our mission and vision, we strive for these six priorities to shape the way we work and those we work alongside. These core values hinge on our aspiration to love teenagers, work alongside communities and serve God’s Church:

Youth

Middle and high school students are a vibrant part of the Church. We laugh, play, serve and engage with them as they learn to love and be loved by Christ. We believe these years are formative for their future and vital for God’s work now.

Communities

Communities are our partners, friends and the places we serve. We continually pursue ways to better listen to, respond to and love them. Entering, working with and learning from these communities should be viewed as an honor and privilege.

Respectful Service

God is already at work in individuals, churches and communities, and we use Jesus’ example of servant-leadership to join the work. Throughout our partnership with a community, we listen closely, speak carefully and serve humbly. Respectful service may feel less efficient, but we believe it is more effective and life-giving.

Relationships

We pursue intentional interactions, restored relationships and ongoing friendships. Using the ministry of Jesus as our example, we prioritize loving and serving people over programs, projects and plans. The experiences we create encourage authentic connections with others and with God. 

Diversity

We value different styles of worship, denominations, tones of skin and expressions of culture. By leaving comfort zones to listen and learn from each other, we can more deeply include, interact with and express the diverse beauty of God’s Kingdom. Every year we have churches from more than 100 denominations come on YouthWorks trips. In a time when people seem to be more divided than ever, watching God’s people from all denominations serve alongside each other is a beautiful thing!

 

Development

We are committed to pushing out of our comfort zones and exploring new opportunities. We humbly continue to seek growth as we listen and learn from those around us, deepen our understanding and determine direction.