I want to show young kids and teens that there is a safe space for them to be themselves no matter their age, sexuality, or gender. This is a youth group I wish my younger self could’ve had. I am honored to be a leader and Christian person for them in a secure setting that uplifts their personhood, focuses on justice, and encourages teens to keep an open mind about things. 

SD United is such a special and unique group that creates a space for all individuals! I love being a part of this group because it allows me to give back to a community I wish was available when I was growing up! 

As I’ve transitioned out of my middle school teaching role, I’ve found so much joy in continuing to guide middle school students through SD United! 

Youth group was always a highlight of my week growing up and getting to provide a safe and fun space for middle and high schoolers is something I look forward to helping with. I want this to be a positive environment for youth where they can make lifelong friends while also being able to ask questions, keep an open mind, and be treated with respect and compassion. 

Growing up, I went to a summer camp every summer that I loved; it was really important for me to have that space where I connected with mentors and felt seen and accepted. So I'm inclined to help try to create that space for kids now :) I also worked at that summer camp for a ton of summers, and I loved it. I love working with kids and feeling like I'm providing them some understanding or acceptance they might not get elsewhere.

I loved my experience in youth group in high school and I want to be able to help foster a similar group environment where all students can feel welcome, have fun, be themselves, and learn about Christ's love for them. My youth leaders were instrumental in creating a space where we could be ourselves and wrestle with faith simply as high schoolers, not as people who had everything all figured out and I’m excited to give back to this youth group in that way!

I am passionate about supporting young people in environments where they can feel truly seen, heard, and affirmed. As someone who has navigated my journey with identity and faith, I understand the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth can explore their spiritual paths without fear of judgment. I’m especially drawn to your group’s commitment to progressive values, as I believe it’s essential to provide youth with the tools to build empathy, resilience, and confidence. I’m excited to contribute my experience working with youth and my passion for mental health and emotional wellness to help foster a nurturing and empowering space for them.

I really liked youth group as a kid and would like to pay it forward to the next generation. Being a teen is hard, and having a safe and fun space to work through that hardship is super important. I think SD United has an amazing culture and set of values that can provide a uniquely edifying environment to these kids and I'd like to be a part of it.

I took a break from volunteering with youth while I was in grad school for becoming a therapist, and I'm so excited to take on the responsibility again of regularly investing in teens. My favorite clients are teenagers, so I know I'll have a great time :)  It feels like a really awesome/humbling privilege to see someone grow up and grow in their faith.  I believe youth group should feel inclusive and welcoming to everyone who walks through the door, especially since we don't know what's always going on at home.