This morning we are blessed to hear from Jake Bland, President and CEO of Youth For Christ USA. Youth for Christ has been a pillar of missional youth ministry since 1944, when the Rev. Billy Graham served as YFC’s first full-time staff member. Today, Youth For Christ reaches young people everywhere, including in over 100 nations and through 140 local chapters across America.

Jake’s journey with YFC began as a high school student, then as a volunteer and intern. Prior to joining the YFC staff, he taught in the Interactive Media Department at Bradley University and co-founded two media production companies. He holds a master’s degree in Youth Ministry Leadership from Huntington University.

Jake and his wife, Alison, live in the Denver area, where Jake serves as an elder in their church. Jake and Ali have two children, and they love traveling, music, hiking, spending time with friends, and enjoying God’s creation in Colorado.