Hearts Transformed The Mission and Ministry of Youth-Reach Gulf Coast
Set on 81 peaceful acres near Summerdale, Alabama, Youth-Reach Gulf Coast is more than a place— it’ s a lifeline. This Christ-centered, non-profit home for young men ages 18 to 22 exists to offer what many have never truly known: structure, healing, and a second chance.
Youth-Reach is a full-time, residential program built on the belief that no life is too broken for restoration. It’ s not a boot camp or reform school— it’ s a family rooted in faith, grace, and the hope that transformation is always possible.
Many residents arrive from homes marked by addiction, incarceration, or instability. Others are simply searching for direction. Here, they find more than shelter— they find purpose. Importantly, there is no cost to participate in the program. Youth-Reach is completely free to residents, ensuring that every young man has access to healing and hope regardless of his financial situation. Through mentorship, discipleship, and life skills training, residents are guided to confront their past and build a future. With staff living on campus and modeling Christ’ s love daily, the young men learn to take responsibility, grow in character, and embrace accountability.
From prayer and scripture to practical job training, every day at Youth-Reach is an opportunity for growth. Residents learn the value of integrity, work ethic, and consistency. Groundskeeping, vocational skills, and community service help shape them into men ready to lead. Privately funded and community-supported, the program fosters a culture of family and trust.
The quiet, wooded campus offers a stark contrast to the chaos many of these young men have known. In this peaceful setting, horses graze, trails wind, and growth unfolds slowly but surely through hard conversations, breakthroughs, and the courage to keep choosing the right path.
When disaster hits the Gulf Coast, the Chainsaw Army answers the call. As part of Youth-Reach’ s outreach, residents train in disaster relief— clearing trees, tarping roofs, and serving as the hands and feet of Jesus. These young men, once broken themselves, now step into broken places with tools in hand and hearts full of hope. Each act of service is a step in their own journey of healing.
Youth-Reach Gulf Coast is a 501 C-3 organization, completely supported by private donations. Among its most passionate supporters is the Mystical Order of the Auroras, a Mardi Gras group devoted to service and philanthropy. " We believe in the mission of Youth-Reach because we’ ve seen firsthand the life-changing impact they have on these young men and our community," says Donna Stump of the Auroras. " They are restoring families, building leaders, and offering hope where there once was none." Every gift and every prayer helps restore communities— and the lives of the young men who serve them. Last year the Auroras’ Swanky Gala signature fundraising events, raised over $ 135,000 combined for Youth-Reach, providing vital support to continue this life-changing mission. The 2025 Swanky Gala will be held on th
September 6 at Perdido Beach Resort. The band, Hi-Definition from Atlanta is a high-energy party band and promises a great time for a great cause.
Because of Youth-Reach, lives are being changed. Futures are being rewritten. And hope is being restored— one young man at a time.
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S plash!