The Young Life Blog

Culture is changing. The next generation is searching for friends, hope, truth — and much more. We live at this intersection, offering insight, encouragement, and practical ways to show up in the lives of students.

Something We Love: A Parent Guide to 2026

Next Gen Culture

We all have that friend — the one who knows the latest music, owns the newest technology, and somehow stays up to date with everything.  Or, we did have that friend — for some of us, what’s happening with younger generations seems absolutely foreign. It leaves us with questions: These may be questions you have…

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A Simple Practice for Noticing God

Faith and Life

5 steps to see where God’s been and where he’s leading Remember that childhood lesson drilled into us by every caring adult in our lives? Stop. Look left. Look right. Look left again. Then cross the street. It seemed so basic then, right? A simple safety rule for navigating busy streets.  But what if this simple practice…

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In Memoriam – Tiger Dawson

In Memoriam

September 17, 1961 – December 14, 2025 Written by Brian Summerall, former longtime Young Life staff. Editor’s Note: Tiger Dawson served on Young Life staff for 22 years. During this time he started the work in Temple and San Antonio, Texas. He also served in the role of regional director in North Central Texas (now the…

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Your 2026 Adventure Starts Here

Legacy and Impact

Adventure, connection, and faith-filled experiences with the Young Life community Whether you’re looking to reconnect with the Young Life community, experience ministry in action around the globe, or simply find adventure with like-minded believers, Young Life has so many trips and experiences that combine breathtaking destinations with meaningful connection. But you don’t have to hop…

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Growing a Faith That’s Lived, Not Just Learned

Faith and Life

Many of us instinctively want a faith that’s more integrated in our lives, that is deeply rooted, and shared with others. The growth of our faith, and its tangible application to our lives, is discipleship — following Jesus as his disciple. How do YOU think about discipleship?  If you’re a parent, how are you modeling…

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3 Ways to Grow Your Impact in 2026

Legacy and Impact

“Mike shows me what Jesus is like.” – JT, WyldLife kid in Great Miami Valley, Ohio Isn’t that what being a WyldLife leader is all about? For 12 years, Mike Allen* has been showing JT and other middle school kids who Jesus is. Mike and his wife, Janie, are the parents of five boys, and…

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9 Ways AI Is Changing How Teens Connect, Learn, and See Themselves

Next Gen Culture

AI is reshaping teen life. Caring adults can respond with wisdom and hope.  Teens today are stepping into a world where artificial intelligence is not just another tool, it’s a constant companion in everyday life. Whether they’re working on homework, navigating friendships, or wrestling with questions about who they are, AI now shows up in…

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Winning With People: How Young Life Showed Up in NASCAR

Next Gen Culture

This year, Young Life showed up in a surprising place: NASCAR. Through a partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing, the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra driven by Aric Almirola was a Young Life car.  What began as an idea from a few generous and creative fans of the mission became one of the most visible ministry…

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Top Young Life Videos of 2025!

Stories of Transformation

Get your popcorn and tissues ready: we have the top eight videos from 2025 teed up and ready to go. All are rooted in telling the great story of what God is doing through this mission.  First, a stroll through the basics. Contact work, club, and Campaigners are three of Young Life’s core techniques in…

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10 Gospel Truths Hidden in A Christmas Carol 

Faith and Life

Most of us first met A Christmas Carol through a childhood favorite — the Disney version, the Muppets, maybe even the Flintstones. Others encountered it in Dickens’ original 1843 “little ghost story,” released just 10 days before Christmas 182 years ago. The tale endures because it speaks to something deeper than Victorian London. Dickens, often…

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Here’s How to Continue Your Young Life Story 

Next Gen Culture, Legacy and Impact

The relationships that changed your life don’t have to end.  Building Lifelong Connections with Young Life  Once you’re part of the Young Life family, you’re family for life.   After more than 80 years of work, we know ministry extends far beyond high school graduation, and we have a vast network of alumni, former staff, and…

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A Busy Season. A Present Savior.  

Faith and Life

President/CEO Newt Crenshaw on how hope meets us where we are.  Feeling Busy?  The holidays, that stretch of time from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, can often feel loaded. We experience some of the best of what our Lord offers to us: good meals with those we love, reminders of what matters, times of thankfulness. Yet,…

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6 Small Actions that Make a Big Difference for Teens

Next Gen Culture

You’re not good enough. You’ll never be skinny enough. Strong enough. Pretty enough. Smart enough. Funny enough. You’ll never measure up to what the world needs of you. No one will notice the value you bring to this world. You’re not enough. These were all lies I believed at one point or another in my…

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