“What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?

Matthew 18:12 (NIV)

In a world where 25 million young lives face the challenges of incarceration, homelessness, trafficking, or foster care, Young Life One (YL ONE) serves as a beacon of hope. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:12, YL ONE is dedicated to delivering the gospel and fostering meaningful connections, making a significant impact on the lives of those often overlooked.

Meet Rachel Karman - Visionary National Director of YL ONE

Rachel Karman, the National Director of YL ONE, brings a unique blend of Young Life leadership and social work experience to the forefront. Rachel spent 10 years as a social worker in Los Angeles. Later, in 2015 she was hired to work for a school in San Diego for a school with students experiencing homelessness. A compassionate advocate for youth, Rachel responded to the call when an Area Director asked her to spearhead a ministry for marginalized students. Her commitment didn't stop at the local level; she envisioned YL One as a nationwide initiative. With a grant and a devoted team, what began as four ministries in 2019 has now blossomed into 40 thriving programs by 2022.

Central to YL ONE’s Mission: Building Trust, Bridges, Belonging, Casting Vision, and Impacting Futures

• Building Trust: YL ONE collaborates with local agencies to establish connections with incarcerated, homeless, trafficked, and foster youth, recognizing the paramount importance of trust in fostering meaningful relationships.
• Building Bridges: Addressing fundamental needs such as meals, clothing, shelter, and job coaching, YL ONE aims to bridge the gap for vulnerable youth, providing them with the essential building blocks for a brighter future.
• Fostering Belonging: Through 1:1 mentorship and engaging weekly group events, YL ONE creates a secure environment where vulnerable youth can experience a sense of belonging and family.
• Casting Vision: YL ONE shares the transformative message of Jesus, speaking truth into the identities of vulnerable youth and helping them discover purpose and hope.
• Impacting Futures: YL ONE’s mentorship programs empower vulnerable youth to grow in faith and transition into self-sustaining adulthood, offering holistic support for various aspects of their lives.

YL ONE’s Impact: A Nationwide Movement Transforming Lives

• 40 active ministries spanning the U.S.
• 1,500 vulnerable kids known by name.
• 150 mentors providing 1:1 mentorship and comprehensive support services.
• 250 YL ONE participants attending Summer Camp.
• 25 former Young Life ONE kids serving through work crew and summer staff discipleship programs.

How You Can Contribute: Making a Difference Together

To further YL ONE's mission, consider the following avenues for involvement:

• Join the Prayer Team: Become an official prayer partner, believing in the transformative power of prayer.
• Initiate YL ONE in Your Area: Extend the reach of YL ONE by bringing it to your community, impacting marginalized youth locally.
• Explore Employment Opportunities: Identify companies or internships in your area that could offer job opportunities for these youth.
• Volunteer for Club Activities: Dedicate your time and skills to support YL ONE’s local events.
• Financial Support: YL ONE seeks funding for expanding training, resources, leadership, local investment, and sustainability. Learn more here.

If you feel led to support this ministry, please email ylone@sc.younglife.org.

Read a Personal Story: Making a Difference, One Life at a Time

Click here​ to read a heartwarming personal story from the life of a young individual whose journey was transformed by YL ONE. Discover firsthand the impact of YL ONE in the real-life experiences of these kids and how it has made a lasting difference.

Together, we can break barriers and be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of marginalized youth nationwide. Join the transformative journey with YL ONE as we strive to make a lasting impact—one relationship at a time.

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