Summer Staff Moments from 2016

At YouthWorks, we’re so grateful for all the incredible moments that composed Summer 2016 – including all of the hard work of our summer staff. The service and learning and growth that God brought about in communities across the continent is truly something to give thanks for. Below are just a few of our favorite 2016 Summer Staff moments. As you peruse these pictures, continue to process your mission trip and consider how God will use your YouthWorks experience to propel you into whatever comes next.

Today, I have to say goodbye to all of my kids that I have gotten to know over the past 2 summers. I have seen them grow so much in their faith and I am extremely proud of each of them. Thank you for loving me more than I could ever love you. A piece of my heart will forever remain in the Navajo Nation! All Glory To God! #yw2016

A photo posted by Robert Fees (@rfiv) on Jul 28, 2016 at 9:09am PDT

This is Jim, and he lives way down a backroad in West Virginia. Five years ago, I connected a group of students from Minnesota to serve Jim at his home through YouthWorks, doing minor stuff like washing his trailer and cutting his grass. Every time I would show up to his house, he'd tell me to get a pop, sit down, and we'd chat for a while. At the end of the week, he gave me his pocket knife, and that week is still one of the most significant weeks of my entire YouthWorks experience. Last night, five years later, I drove up the holler toward his house, and found him sitting on his front porch. I reminded him who I was, and he said "That's YOU?! How you doin?!", and we sat for an hour talking about that week in 2011, the pizza he bought for the students, the cough he had two years ago, his time as a coal miner, and his girlfriend that is 25 years younger than him. Really glad I stopped by. The sun doesn't always shine in West Virginia, but the people always do! You don't have to be from here to feel like you belong here. #yw2016 #appalachia #takemehomecountryroads

A photo posted by Peter Carlson (@ptrhcrlsn) on Jul 27, 2016 at 1:39pm PDT

This. This is why I get up each and everyday. For the amazing moments of breakthrough with the little people who hold my heart. #yw2016 #readingclub

A photo posted by Jessi Walker (@jessiwlkr) on Jul 28, 2016 at 11:46am PDT

when this dear little heart smiles & giggles, it makes it ALL worth it! #yw2016

A photo posted by Claire (@clairemariewaugh) on Jul 25, 2016 at 2:45pm PDT

Look at these people!! You all can't see their hearts…but let me stand as a witness in this dark world. There are people who want to stand for peace. Do what I do for one summer. I promise you. There is light in this darkness. #yw2016 #heavensburgs2016

A photo posted by kaylasuerosey (@kaylasuerosey) on Jul 22, 2016 at 11:24am PDT

"As I went down in the river to pray Studying about that good old way And who shall wear the robe and crown Good Lord, show me the way" What a beautiful day, way, place and reason to be baptized. I'm so thankful I got the chance to experience this awesome moment through YouthWorks. #yw2016

A photo posted by Scarlett (@scarlettlyanna) on Jul 6, 2016 at 2:15pm PDT

These are the moments that make it all worth it. Interested in applying to be 2017 YouthWorks Summer Staff? Click HERE!