YOUR STORY MATTERS

Social support networks

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Your story matters, and it can make a difference beyond what you imagine. Youth, in particular, seek meaningful connections and the recognition of their unique identities. The challenge is how to effectively support and care for individuals while creating systems that enhance social well-being and positive environments.

Long Beach Young Life addresses the critical need for stable support systems and genuine connections for impacted youth by building authentic relationships and fostering intergenerational mentorship. Our programs offer comprehensive development opportunities, encompassing spiritual, emotional, and social growth, supported by positive role models who provide guidance and support. By meeting youth where they are and introducing them to Jesus Christ, we create a strong, inclusive community network that empowers young people to overcome challenges and achieve their potential. This grant will support clubs, activities, and camps that provide these transformative opportunities, ensuring that every young person is known by name.

If Long Beach Young Life is successful, the city will experience a profound transformation through stronger, more resilient youth who are equipped to contribute positively to their communities. This includes reduced youth vulnerability, improved mental and emotional well-being, empowered future leaders and stronger community networks.
By achieving these outcomes, Long Beach will become a city where every young person is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. There are 38,000 students at LBUSD middle and high school and we want to connect with all of them!

Long Beach Young Life, as part of a global organization with a local focus, measures its impact through several key metrics:
Weekly Engagement: We track the number of youth who participate in our weekly clubs
Contact Work: Our goal is to know each young person by name. We measure the depth of our relationships by assessing how many youth we connect with outside of school. We support the development of intergenerational relationships
Participation in camps and activities: We monitor the number of youth attending our camps and special activities. These immersive experiences are critical for personal growth and building strong community ties, so tracking attendance helps us understand our reach and impact. By employing these metrics, Long Beach Young Life ensures that we are not only reaching a significant number of youth but also making meaningful, lasting connections that contribute to their overall well-being and development.