What Is Young Life?
Where It All Began
Young Life began in the early 1940s when seminary student Jim Rayburn felt called to reach teenagers who had little interest in church. Rather than waiting for students to come to him, he went to where they were—creating fun, welcoming gatherings that shared the message of Jesus in a way teens could understand and connect with.
The roots of Young Life also trace back to Clara Frasher, whose faithful prayers for local high school students in the 1930s helped lay the spiritual foundation for the ministry’s beginning.
As the movement grew, Young Life expanded through passionate volunteers and staff who shared the vision of meeting students where they are. Today, Young Life continues that same mission—building authentic relationships, sharing hope, and showing up for teens in meaningful ways.
From Coast to Coast
Young Life Canada began in 1954, its mission has been to meet teens where they’re at—on their turf. After thriving in Western Canada and Ontario, Young Life is now stepping into the early stages of building that same presence on the East Coast.
Right now, we are laying the foundation—gathering a team, building relationships, and preparing to enter into the lives of local teens in meaningful ways. Our goal is simple: to show up consistently in the places teens already are and to build genuine friendships where they feel known, supported, and heard. Over time, these relationships will create space for conversations about life and faith in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. We are excited to be taking our first steps in the Halifax Regional Municipality and surrounding areas, believing the mission of Young Life will spread vibrantly across Nova Scotia.
Fun Fact
Did you know Young Life is global?
It is so exciting to realize we are not alone! Here are just some of the regions where it is currently active:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom & Ireland
- Across Europe (including countries like France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and others)
- Africa & the Middle East
- Asia Pacific
- Latin America & the Caribbean
- Former Soviet Union countries
From big cities to small communities, Young Life leaders are present in schools, neighbourhoods, and everyday spaces—building relationships and walking alongside teens all over the world.
What We Value
In Nova Scotia, many teens are growing up surrounded by noise, pressure, and isolation—but still longing for real connection and belonging. Young Life matters here because it steps into that space, showing up in the everyday world of teens to build real relationships, offer consistent presence, and create environments where they are known, valued, and invited to explore life and faith.
We value consistency, genuine relationships, and creating spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and known. These values shape how we show up, how we listen, and how we invest in the next generation.
Our KNOWN campaign reflects this heart in action. It is a reminder that every student is seen, loved, and never forgotten. More than a message, it is an invitation—to experience belonging, to be welcomed as they are, and to know they are deeply known and cared for.
Learn how to Get Involved
There’s a place for you here and many other ways you can get involved – Whether you’re ready to lead, support, donate or simply learn more, we’d love to connect with you!