Young LIfe East Manatee
PO BOX 20835, BRADENTON, FL 34204
yleastmanatee@gmail.com
WHAT IS YOUNG LIFE
Young Life doesn't start with a program. It starts with adults concerned enough about kids to go to them, on their turf and in their culture, building bridges of authentic friendship. These relationships don't happen over night, they take time, patience, trust and consistency.
So Young Life Leaders log many hours with kids around the world, where they are as they are. We listen to their stories and learn what's important to them because we genuinely care about their joys, triumphs, heartaches and setbacks.
We believe in the power of presence. Kids lives are dramatically impacted when caring adults come along side them. Because their leader believes in them, teenagers begin to see that their lives have great worth, meaning and purpose.
WHAT WE DO
Caring For Kids - Contact Work
Because kids don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. Young Life leaders show they care by going where kids are, meeting them as they are, believing in who they can be. Within Young Life we call the persistent going out into the world of kids "contact work." But kids just call it friendship.
A Party with a Purpose - Club
What is it about Young Life Club that makes it the best night of the week? 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.
Question, Learn and Grow - Campaigners
Campaigners is a smaller gathering for kids who wish to learn more or grow in their faith. We invite kids to actively follow Jesus Christ - and we're with them for the long haul to help them take those steps of faith with unconditional love. Along the way we encourage kids to celebrate their faith through participation in a local congregation.
The Best Week of their Life - Camp
Kids consistently tell us that Young Life camp is the best week of their life. That's a rousing endorsement! But how else would you describe 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?
You Were Made for this
Your story matters, and it can make a difference beyond what you imagine.
Volunteer your time to work directly with young people.
Support the staff and leaders as part of the local adult committee.
Give resources to start or sustain the financial foundation at the local or national level.
