Young life reaches kids where they are
On any given weeknight in Johnson County, you might find a group of high school students laughing through a messy game, singing along to music, or listening quietly as a leader talks about life, faith and purpose. It may look like a party— and in many ways, it is— but it’ s all part of a mission that has been quietly impacting local teenagers for years through Young Life.
Johnson County Young Life is part of the larger Young Life organization, an international Christian ministry that focuses on mentoring middle school, high school and college students. The program is built on relationships, with adult leaders investing time in students’ lives— showing up at games, school events and community activities— to build trust and provide encouragement.
Unlike many traditional youth programs, Young Life leaders don’ t wait for students to come to them. Instead, they go where students already are— campuses, sporting events, coffee shops and community gatherings— building friendships first.
Johnson County Young Life began in 2012 as Joshua Young Life. In 2022, WyldLife, a club for Johnson County middle school students, was created. Between the high school and both
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middle school, almost students are involved each year.
Theresa Boydston is Johnson County Young Life’ s director and she is assisted by student and adult leaders.
The organization’ s vision is to serve as a lifeline for students by reaching them where they are in their lives. Students from area public high schools, private schools and homeschools join together at 7:02 p. m. Mondays at 102 N. Main St. in downtown Joshua. WyldLife meet at 5:02 p. m. Fridays when they meet. It is not every Friday.
Weekly gatherings, known as“ Club,” are designed to be fun, welcoming and high-energy, often including games, music and short talks about faith and life challenges. The goal is to create a place where students feel accepted, valued and heard.
In addition to Club, Young Life also hosts small group Bible studies called Campaigners, summer camps, weekend retreats and service opportunities.
At the heart of Johnson County Young Life is mentorship. Volunteer leaders commit to walking alongside students through the ups and downs of teenage life— from academic stress and family challenges to questions about identity and future goals.
Leaders are trained and background-checked, and many serve for years, building lasting relationships with students and families.
One of the highlights for many students involved in Young Life is summer camp. The organization operates camps across the country known for outdoor activities, team challenges, live music and inspirational speakers. Many students say camp is where they form lifelong friendships and experience personal growth.
Johnson County Young Life is supported by local donors, churches, volunteers and community leaders who believe in investing in the next generation. Fundraisers, banquets and community events help provide scholarships so students can attend camps and activities regardless of financial situation.
Organizers say their mission is simple: to ensure every teenager in Johnson County knows they matter and are not alone.
As the program continues to grow, Johnson County Young Life leaders hope to reach more campuses and more students in the coming years— one friendship at a time.
For information, visit their Facebook page, call 817-368-0349 or email johnsoncountyyounglife @ gmail. com.