I love the way YOKE develops Christian leaders. YOKE meets middle school students right where they are, welcoming them into a loving community, helping them discover their identity and purpose in Christ, and equipping them to reach both their peers and the next generation of YOKE Kids. This cycle of mentorship makes YOKE’s ministry self-perpetuating—we are growing our own leaders!
Our team at Norris Middle School in Anderson County is a powerful example of this transformation. For more than 20 years, team leader Eric Enger has watched YOKE Kids grow into YOKE Folk, making recruiting volunteers almost unnecessary. Today, more than half of his team at Norris are former YOKE Kids, and much of this transformation happens at YOKE Camp.
YOKE Camp is where lasting friendships are formed. “YOKE camp will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s where I met my best friend,” said T.J. Stephens. “We build each other up and encourage each other to grow in our relationship with Jesus. That’s what YOKE camp did for me, and I pray it does the same for others.”
It’s also where students discover their identity and purpose in Christ. “I was always excited for camp, and it was a lot of fun as a YOKE kid,” remembered Levi Zemke. “Part of the reason I wanted to be a YOKE Folk was the way I saw my YOKE Folk serve as role models to me and my friends at camp. As I got older, I realized being a YOKE Folk was something I could do to impact kids for Jesus. It was a way for me to give back to the organization that helped shape me.”
And camp is where leaders are equipped. “YOKE camp helped me step back and realize that this experience isn’t about me but about Jesus and how He develops leaders through us,” explained Jason Holder. “Serving as a Future Folk at camp helped shape me into the servant I am today. I am thankful for that opportunity.”
YOKE Camp is just around the corner, offering another opportunity to impact students with the life-changing love of Jesus. However, many of our students would not be able to attend camp without the generous support of financial partners like you.
Would you consider making a gift to YOKE this month to ensure that every student has the opportunity to experience camp? Your generosity can change lives and shape future leaders for Christ.
- $125 Sponsor 1 YOKE Kid
- $250 Sponsor 1 YOKE Kid and their YOKE Folk
- $500 Sponsor a Cabin
- $1,000 Sponsor a Club
Grateful for your partnership,
Jonathan Haskell
Executive Director