“What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?
Matthew 18:12 (NIV)
Breaking Barriers: YL One's Mission to Empower Marginalized Youth
In a world where 25 million young lives face the challenges of incarceration, homelessness, trafficking, or foster care, Young Life One (YL ONE) serves as a beacon of hope. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:12, YL ONE is dedicated to delivering the gospel and fostering meaningful connections, making a significant impact on the lives of those often overlooked.
Meet Rachel Karman - Visionary National Director of YL ONE
Rachel Karman, the National Director of YL ONE, brings a unique blend of Young Life leadership and social work experience to the forefront. Rachel spent 10 years as a social worker in Los Angeles. Later, in 2015 she was hired to work for a school in San Diego for a school with students experiencing homelessness. A compassionate advocate for youth, Rachel responded to the call when an Area Director asked her to spearhead a ministry for marginalized students. Her commitment didn't stop at the local level; she envisioned YL One as a nationwide initiative. With a grant and a devoted team, what began as four ministries in 2019 has now blossomed into 40 thriving programs by 2022.
Central to YL ONE’s Mission: Building Trust, Bridges, Belonging, Casting Vision, and Impacting Futures
Building Trust: YL ONE collaborates with local agencies to establish connections with incarcerated, homeless, trafficked, and foster youth, recognizing the paramount importance of trust in fostering meaningful relationships.
Building Bridges: Addressing fundamental needs such as meals, clothing, shelter, and job coaching, YL ONE aims to bridge the gap for vulnerable youth, providing them with the essential building blocks for a brighter future.
Fostering Belonging: Through 1:1 mentorship and engaging weekly group events, YL ONE creates a secure environment where vulnerable youth can experience a sense of belonging and family.
Casting Vision: YL ONE shares the transformative message of Jesus, speaking truth into the identities of vulnerable youth and helping them discover purpose and hope.
Impacting Futures: YL ONE’s mentorship programs empower vulnerable youth to grow in faith and transition into self-sustaining adulthood, offering holistic support for various aspects of their lives.
YL ONE’s Impact: A Nationwide Movement Transforming Lives
40 active ministries spanning the U.S.
1,500 vulnerable kids known by name.
150 mentors providing 1:1 mentorship and comprehensive support services.
250 YL ONE participants attending Summer Camp.
25 former Young Life ONE kids serving through work crew and summer staff discipleship programs.
How You Can Contribute: Making a Difference Together
To further YL ONE's mission, consider the following avenues for involvement:
Join the Prayer Team: Become an official prayer partner, believing in the transformative power of prayer.
Initiate YL ONE in Your Area: Extend the reach of YL ONE by bringing it to your community, impacting marginalized youth locally.
Explore Employment Opportunities: Identify companies or internships in your area that could offer job opportunities for these youth.
Volunteer for Club Activities: Dedicate your time and skills to support YL ONE’s local events.
Financial Support: YL ONE seeks funding for expanding training, resources, leadership, local investment, and sustainability. Learn more here.
If you feel led to support this ministry, please email ylone@sc.younglife.org.
Read a Personal Story: Making a Difference, One Life at a Time
Click here to read a heartwarming personal story from the life of a young individual whose journey was transformed by YL ONE. Discover firsthand the impact of YL ONE in the real-life experiences of these kids and how it has made a lasting difference.
Together, we can break barriers and be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of marginalized youth nationwide. Join the transformative journey with YL ONE as we strive to make a lasting impact—one relationship at a time.
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Written by: Meghan Scheer