An important part of our commitment to kids is how we keep kids safe. Our staff and volunteer leaders know they are responsible for modeling lives of hope and integrity. Young Life's Human Resources department has developed mission wide policies and procedures to ensure that kids are protected when they are with Young Life staff and/or leaders as well as when kids are part of Young Life sponsored activities.Rapid City Young Life is committed to kids and providing them with a safe place where they can explore life and the One who created it. We carefully screen our leaders to ensure they are men and women of integrity and all volunteers are trained and supervised by staff member.
Our staff and volunteers receive training in the signs and symptoms associated with child abuse, teen suicide, self-harm, and other crisis situations. They receive training related to appropriate crisis intervention steps.
Young Life has a 24/7 crisis line that Young Life leaders can call to speak with a licensed professional with concerns about the safety of any student and advice toward the steps they can take to keep them safe.
"I like Young Life because they accept me for being different. People don't treat me poorly at Young Life and I fell loved" - Parker, Rapid City HS
"At Young Life I get to see and meet different people and just be myself. Young Life has changed my life by knowing that God will never give up on me even if I give up on Him." - Matilyn, Rapid City HS
"I first got into Young Life after a close friend of mine took his own life. It was a sad and traumatic time, but my leaders were there to comfort me and all of my buddies. As time went on, I decided to start participating in some activities with Young Life, and my leader started teaching me more and more about God along the way." - Robbie, Central HS
*Due to the nature of our ministry, there are times when we may be called away from the office. If you need to get ahold of someone, please refer to our staff info below!
Sam was raised in the Black Hills, and has been part of the YL team since 2017. She spends her spare time with her family, and is very involved with the worship team and other areas in her church. She loves music, being outside, catching up on her favorite shows, and traveling.