In a world that is becoming more complex, teenagers face unique challenges navigating academics, social pressures and personal development. Young Life, an organization focused on educating teenagers on the gospel of Jesus Christ, offers a welcoming and supportive environment for high school students through its local club meetings.
These clubs are gaining recognition for their positive impact on teens, providing a sense of belonging, fostering personal growth and encouraging positive life choices.
Young Life has been working for years to bring long-term relationships together and educate students on the importance of Jesus. Students from all over Palm Beach County attend Young Life meetings weekly on Mondays at 7:32 p.m.
Young Life Club offers a variety of activities designed to engage teens in a fun and relatable way. Weekly meetings often include games, music, skits and discussions on relevant topics facing young people today. These activities create a relaxed and informal atmosphere where teens feel comfortable connecting with their peers and adult leaders.
“Young life has allowed me to make lifelong friends that I will forever consider family,” Mckenna Kovachik, junior said. “Going to the club every week allows me to come out of my shell and talk to other people who have faced similar experiences that I’m currently going through.”
Beyond weekly meetings, Young Life organizes weekend camps and other social events that provide opportunities for deeper connection and personal reflection. These experiences often create lasting memories and friendships, further strengthening the sense of community within the group.
“Going to weekend camp helped me build so many relationships with other religious teens my age and I was able to connect with people that have similar views with me and I felt appreciated and loved,” Sofia Laschinski, junior said.
Students opened a Young Life club at Jupiter High School to bring students together, make new lifetime friendships and educate students about God. The club meets once or twice a month offering snacks, games and beneficial messages from leaders.
“Our young life club is a little different from outside of school. It gives students a more one-on-one opportunity to talk to leaders about personal struggles, where leaders can then provide students with personal guidance,” Anna Albertsson, junior said.
The impact of Young Life extends beyond individual teens. By fostering positive values and encouraging community involvement, these clubs contribute to the community’s overall well-being. Through mentorship and positive role models, Young Life helps equip teens with the skills and support they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and become thriving young adults.
“I’ve been a part of Young Life for five years and the most important thing I have learned is to surround yourself with people who think positively and do not listen to others pushing you away from God, it is on you to make time for him,” Kovachik said.
As Young Life grows and expands its reach, it offers a beacon of hope and support for teenagers seeking connection, purpose and a positive path forward.
“Jesus always wants a relationship no matter what has happened in your past. Give him a chance, it is worth it,” Albertsson said.
Join the Young Life club at school, google classroom code q3rgbun and follow Instagram @younglife.jhs and @younglifepalmbeachcounty