FAQ's
I never heard about Youth For Christ---what is it?
Youth For Christ is an inter-denominational, non-sectarian youth organization that has been in existence since 1944 nationally and since 1959 on Long Island. Although Youth For Christ is a national organization, each local chapter (like Long Island) is locally incorporated and governed by a community-based board of directors. (Link here to listing of LI YFC Board and Staff)
The focus of Youth For Christ is on helping high school and middle school age young people build a balanced life by developing an understanding of the physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual dimensions of their lives. Youth For Christ helps young people explore and experience the Christian faith as a foundation for their life from which they can make wise and healthy choices about their beliefs, attitudes, personal behavior and relationships.
Involvement by students is voluntary and without obligation. Youth For Christ does not discriminate against any student on the basis of race, religion, family background or gender. There are no dues or membership requirements. Youth For Christ welcomes inquiries from parents and community leaders.
Long Island Youth For Christ is a chartered affiliate chapter of YFC/USA based in Denver, CO. Information on the national organization is available at www.yfc.net
What programs does Long Island YFC offer?
Student Led Ministry – helping students with training and resources to lead student clubs in public schools under the Equal Access Law.
Campus Life and CL2 – Community based programs for students off school grounds lead by adult paid staff and volunteer leaders. www.campuslifeli.org
Teen Parents—helping teens (female and male) who are pregnant or raising their own children.
Events and Conferences—Islandwide and Area events for young people with music and performers and speakers designed to address the challenges teens are facing.
Team I-Themba—Partnership with South Africa Youth For Christ that brings a dance and drama team to the USA for six months to present programs in schools and churches on racism and HIV/AIDS in Africa and the USA.
Youth Leader Networks—providing training, resources and interaction for youth workers from a wide variety of churches.
More helpful information on all these programs can be found on this website.
Is Youth For Christ Associated With Our School?
Although YFC works with students from a particular high school or middle school, YFC has no legal or financial ties with the school district. Nationally many educators, civic leaders and clergy endorse YFC. Any association with the school on a particular project or issue is done only with full knowledge and approval of school authorities.
Is Youth For Christ Associated With My Church?
YFC encourages students to develop a personal faith and be involved in a local church. YFC staff leaders are members of local Christian churches. Churches of various denominations support YFC financially and frequently participate in mutual activities. YFC, however, has no formal affiliation with any particular church.
The YFC program is directed toward the growing number of teenagers who are losing interest in religious involvement and forsaking religious instruction. YFC seeks to present the Christian faith in word and action so that young people would be positively motivated to actively build a personal religious faith in Jesus Christ and become involved in a local church.
Who Pays For Youth For Christ?
The programs of Youth For Christ are locally supported and dependent on voluntary, tax-deductible gifts and contributions from individuals, churches and businesses. The expansion and development of the Youth For Christ program is directly related to community support. Complete financial information is available on request.
Do Other Communities Have Youth For Christ?
There are more than 1400 paid staff members in the United States who work with YFC in over 180 cities and communities nationwide. In addition, thousands of adult volunteers participate each week. All these adult volunteers are carefully screened and trained. Most staff members have a bachelor’s degree; many have graduate degrees. All staff members receive extensive training and ongoing continuing education. Youth For Christ is active in 97 countries worldwide with an indigenous leadership team that reflects the cultural and racial background of the local community.
Want to Know More?
Direct questions to: Long Island YFC Administrative Office 1775 New York Avenue, Huntington Station, NY 11746 631-385-8333 or info@liyfc.org
info@liyfc.org
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