Friends of Young Life,
We are living in unprecedented and uncertain times. Our lives and the ministry of Young Life in Buncombe County looks incredibly different than it did in early March. We pride ourselves on two things: praying for kids, and showing up in kids’ lives on their turf armed with the love of Christ. A great benefit from this time is that it has forced us all to re-evaluate, re-prioritize, and reset our lives. Our need for prayer, community, and our dependence on Christ alone has never been clearer.
Another big question has been, “How do we show up in kids’ lives when we can’t be with them face to face?” I’ve been so impressed with my co-workers and our volunteer's creativity in this area. Through various social media platforms (Zoom, Instagram, Houseparty, Google Chat) we have sustained an interactive presence in the lives of young people Buncombe County. Every two weeks, we host multiple outreach events called “Club”, as well as 22 bible studies called “Campaigners”. Our leaders also show up at kid’s homes with their favorite candy or take-out and hang out with them in their yards and driveways on a regular basis. We continue as best we can share the Gospel through our actions and the Lord has been gracious to us and to kids in this way.
While we have adapted to this current reality, we are also positioning Young Life for a sustainable future. To this end, we have pro-actively adjusted our plans and financial strategy. You are a valued partner in this ministry and we take the stewardship of your support very seriously. We have a responsibility to use your gifts wisely and adjust to the realities of this challenging situation. Thus we wanted to communicate that Buncombe County Young Life has:
1. Reduced operating expenses by 30% the last two months
2. Created a plan to reduce staff salaries based on budget-related “triggers”.
3. Developed new fundraising channels and rescheduled our 10th Annual Clay Shoot to August 28.
4. Built a phased process that will allow us to safely re-engage with kids as restrictions are lifted according to CDC and the state of NC guidelines.
There is still much that is unknown about the future; whether or not we’ll be able to have any form of summer camp, fall camp and even what in-person gatherings will look like for Young Life moving forward. But no matter what the future holds, we trust that God is always with us and on the move.
We continue to stand in awe of your faithfulness to God’s ministry through Young Life. The way you offer your prayers, financial support, volunteer hours (and much more) is truly overwhelming. We are grateful for you and cannot wait to connect with you (in person) very soon!
Grace and Peace,
Matt Sloan
Area Director
