Since mid-February, Developing Global Leaders (DGL) has partnered with Drew and Ellie Holcomb in a limited concert series with a purpose far bigger than the music — to invite people into changing the world through education.
We set an ambitious goal: sponsoring the education of 60 new students. Each sponsorship doesn’t just impact a single student, however. It ripples outward to families, communities, and even entire countries.
What is Developing Global Leaders?
If DGL is new to you, here’s a snapshot of the impact as of the end of 2025:
- 732 current students
- 76 countries represented
- 1,155 DGL graduates
- 29.6% of graduates now serving on full-time Young Life staff
- 54.9% of DGL students are women
- 19,057 volunteer leaders have been recruited by DGL students
DGL does more than provide access to a college education. It equips young leaders to plant deep roots in their communities, serving as Young Life leaders, mentors, and change-makers. The impact stretches far beyond the classroom.
Lives Transformed, Leaders Raised
Take Deborah, one of our incredible graduates. She recently made history with Young Life Africa as the first female senior vice president, now leading all of West Africa. Her journey — from scholarship recipient to senior leader — beautifully reflects how God multiplies sponsorships, raising up leaders who boldly step into their calling.
Or consider Stephan in Ukraine. A 2012 graduate, Stephan now runs his own bike shop, serves as a Young Life leader, and financially supports his local ministry. His education became a foundation for lasting impact in his community.
These are just two of the countless stories that reveal how God works through both education and the movement of the Holy Spirit to transform lives.
Why a Concert Series?
We wanted to share these stories on a bigger stage — one that would offer an encore with an eternal impact.
That’s where Drew and Ellie Holcomb came in. Since 2014, Drew and Ellie have personally sponsored DGL students and wanted to invite their fans to join them. At each concert, nearly 30,000 guests across 17 shows had the opportunity to meet our DGL team, hear powerful student stories, and help us give more students the opportunity to get an education!
As of mid-March, we’ve raised $117,824 with nearly 10 full student sponsors, and the conversations have been amazing. We’ve re-engaged with many alumni at the shows. One person said, “Young Life … I haven’t thought about Young Life for decades.” In addition, we’ve provided awareness for people who have never given to Young Life before.
With only a few shows remaining, we’re close to finishing up this adventure, but there’s still room for you to be involved!
Lives Transformed, Leaders Raised
Of course, you don’t have to attend a concert to be part of someone’s story.
A full DGL sponsorship is $250 a month, and you can do it on your own — or invite friends, family, or your small group to join you. This opportunity is for everyone.
Education changes lives.
Let’s do this together.
