Youth 71Five Ministries
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” [Psalm 71:5 icb]
Relational Ministry
We exist to share God’s story of hope with young people through trusting relationships in any relevant way.
Find out more about each of our unique youth activities by clicking the button >>>
“Today your Savior was born in David’s town. He is Christ, the Lord. This is how you will know him: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a feeding box.” Then a very large group of angels from heaven joined the first angel. All the angels were praising God, saying: “Give glory to God in heaven, and on earth let there be peace to the people who please God.”” — Luke 2:11-14 . Powered by BibleGateway.com.
Download our ShareFaith app to your mobile device and choose 71Five:
TRUST TO HOPE
Youth 71Five Ministries provides many opportunities for loving, caring, Christ-following adults to engage in the lives of lost and hurting kids. We aim to bring hope through relationship; providing a safe place to belong and sharing the message of the Gospel. There are a number of ways for you to be involved in the work God is doing in the Rogue Valley – there is a place for you on our team! Young people desperately need your friendship and the love of Jesus in their lives. Through your involvement and God’s power, we will see young lives transformed.
kids need a safe place
Too many kids lack nurturing homes and a sense of belonging. At our 71Five Campus Youth Centers, 71Five City Community Center and 71Five VoTech Training Centers, kids find a safe, fun place to relax and caring adults who take the time to know them. 71Five Campus programs provide opportunities to discuss life lessons from a Christ-centered perspective. 71Five City is an effective ministry model to transform the lives of inner-city youth, their families and the neighborhood communities that they live in.
kids need hope and encouragement
Many young people make poor decisions related to drugs and violence. These kids often end up in Juvenile Detention Centers feeling broken and hopeless. And our 71Five Connect Workshop reaches kids with a powerful resiliency program in local schools. The 71Five Adventure, 71Five Justice and 71Five Connect staff and volunteers offer listening ears and the hope and encouragement found in a relationship with God.
kids need someone to imitate
Kids are always looking for role models to imitate, but many are growing up in relational poverty where they have no good role models to follow. Our 71Five Adventure, 71Five Justice, 71Five Mentors, 71Five Parents and 71Five VoTech mentoring programs provide young people with long term trusting relationships with adults that form the foundation for healthy influence.
we are unique in our work
Although we offer fun and helpful programs for kids, our real work is building the relationships necessary for kids to thrive. By providing places where youth feel secure, by delivering a message of real hope, and by being people kids can truly count on, we are seeing lives transformed.
We mobilize responsible caring adults to be engaged in trusting relationships with young people. We desire this for every young person in our valley. These relationships are the foundation for guiding young people according to the teachings of Jesus Christ—helping them to develop the mental, physical, social, and spiritual components of their lives. Young people will be given hope and purpose so they can thrive individually and strengthen our community.
Youth 71Five Ministry Activities…
Youth 71Five Ministries Includes:
Youth 71Five Ministries exists to share God’s story of hope with young people through trusting relationship in any relevant way. We believe that influence happens best through healthy, authentic, and trusting relationships.
We mobilize responsible caring adults to be engaged in trusting relationships with young people. We desire this for every young person in our valley. These relationships are the foundation for guiding young people according to the teachings of Jesus Christ—helping them to develop the mental, physical, social, and spiritual components of their lives. Young people will be given hope and purpose so they can thrive individually and strengthen our community.
Youth Event Registration:
Every month we usually do at least one extra activity.
Some examples of our activities are: Cave Quest, Snow-day, Paintball, Bowling, Fundraisers, Summer and Winter Camps, Rafting, Redding Water Slides, and lots more.
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted in you since i was young.” [Psalm 71:5 icb]
Youth 71Five Ministries Involvement
Oregon Business magazine announced Youth 71Five Ministries is a 100 Best Nonprofit to work for! Youth 71Five Ministries is not only a workplace to grow and develop professionally, it’s a place that will change you personally. Our organization is also proud to be a GuideStar Platinum Nonprofit Profile participant. Platinum lets us show quantitative metrics on the progress we’re making toward our mission. We thank God for your generosity and we promise to use your financial gift wisely. Youth 71Five Ministries depends on the involvement of caring adults to accomplish our mission—to share God’s story of hope with young people through trusting relationship in any relevant way. We believe that influence happens best through healthy, authentic, and trusting relationships. We are asking God to raise up an army of caring adults who will establish relationships with the youth in our communities. We need volunteers who will serve directly with students, mentoring advocates, intercessors, financial partners, and administrative help in the office. Wherever your gifts and talents lie, you can make an eternal difference in a young person’s life.
you can get involved
Operating in Jackson and Josephine Counties: (3) Youth Centers, (3) Community Centers, and (2) Training Centers. Building trusting relationships through these (9) initiatives: 71Five Adventure, 71Five Camp, 71Five Campus, 71Five City, 71Five Connect, 71Five Justice, 71Five Mentors, 71Five Parents, and 71Five VoTech.
“Come to me, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads. I will give you rest. Accept my work and learn from me. I am gentle and humble in spirit. And you will find rest for your souls. The work that I ask you to accept is easy. The load I give you to carry is not heavy.” [Matthew 11:28-30 icb]
Ready to Volunteer?
Give us your info and we’ll be in touch.
Life Change Stories
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18
Dec '24
The Greatest Gift of All!
18
Dec '24
On my way to work I got a phone call from one of my teens, “Hey Sara, is there a kid in 71Five who can’t have Christmas this year, like they have no presents?” I let him know I was sure there were some. He then explained that he had a present and he wanted a kid with no Christmas to have it. It was a special gift he said, “…Because everyone should have a gift for Christmas!” His generosity encouraged me and reminded me of the gift we are about to celebrate: Jesus’ humble birth. Jesus too was born into a family where presents would have been hard to come by, a family that faced hardships and trials. He could have come down any way he liked, something more for a king. But instead, our Elohim, mighty God came down as a baby into the humblest of families to seek and to save the lost. Giving us the greatest gift of all.
Thank you for being a part of sharing the most important gift with the young people in your community.
Merry Christmas,
SARA VASSALLO, 71Five Campus Coordinator – Central Point
(541) 816-6761 | sara@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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16
Dec '24
Building More than a Chicken Coop
16
Dec '24
At 71Five VoTech – Grants Pass, every project is an opportunity for transformation, and none exemplifies this better than the story of five young men and a chicken coop. These boys—Tommy, Luke, Jesse, Mason, and Caleb—arrived on the first day of class with different backgrounds, abilities, and levels of confidence. Some had never held a hammer; others carried the weight of struggles outside the classroom. They seemed unsure of themselves and each other, hesitant to connect. The challenge? Build a sturdy, functional chicken coop over 11sessions. It was more than a structure—it was a test of their ability to collaborate, learn, and grow. In the first few classes, progress was slow. Measuring lumber turned into a tangle of tape measures and math errors. Power tools were intimidating, and disagreements surfaced over simple decisions. Yet, amid the uncertainty, something powerful began to take root. With the guidance of their instructor and gentle encouragement to “get it wrong, then learn to get it right,” the boys started leaning on one another. Tommy, the natural leader, began asking quiet Caleb for his thoughts. Jesse, usually quick to joke, grew serious as he learned the importance of precision. Their first victory came when they framed the coop’s base—level and square. The cheers that followed filled the shop, signaling not just a milestone, but a breakthrough in their confidence. Luke, who had been shy at first, took the lead on assembling the walls. Mason, who struggled with patience, learned to slow down and focus on sanding each board until it was just right. Each boy found his strength and began to see the value he brought to the team. By the final session, the chicken coop stood tall, complete with a hinged door, nesting boxes, and even a coat of weatherproof paint. It wasn’t just a chicken coop—it was a monument to the journey they’d taken together. The transformation wasn’t just about the coop. Jesse admitted, “I now understand the value of hard work and focus.” Caleb, once reserved, shared, “This group has become my second family.” Luke said, “This experience taught me that I could lead.” The boys walked away not just with new skills in carpentry, but with a sense of pride, camaraderie, and a glimpse of their potential.
At VoTech, it’s never just about the projects—it’s about the lives being built along the way. The chicken coop now stands as a symbol of what’s possible because you have provided the hope found in Jesus to accomplish much more than these young people ever thought they could. Thank You!
AARON FAUST, 71Five VoTech Coordinator – Grants Pass
541.761.5143 | aaron@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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09
Dec '24
The Reality of this World!
09
Dec '24
Weekly clubs have been going well at 71Five Campus in North Medford. We continue to teach God’s story of Hope through Bible teaching and discussion. One young lady Alice, recently said during our discussion defiantly “Her life… Her rules.” It is sad to see that our society has taught young people that they are more importantly individuals independent of any obligations to anyone or anything else. Cultural lies that are designed by the enemy to make kids isolated and lonely and to make them ripe for terrible ideas and temptations. At the same time, Sophia is another young lady at club. She has been asking great questions about faith since she returned from the 71Five Camp last summer. Asking questions such as, “What does real repentance look like in my life?” Sophia is asking with earnestness and sincerity! Revelation chapter 12 describes a great cosmic war between spiritual powers with humans being rescued by one side and devoured by the opposing side. Tragically one girl sees her life as being all about herself not realizing that there are much bigger forces at work, while another girl has begun to realize she must repent and join a side!
Because of you and your crucial support, we can share with young people the real history and the present reality of the world, and together we were able to, as it says in Ephesians 6:12, wrestle and fight to pierce through the darkness that evil cosmic powers use to capture our young people and destroy them. Thank you for reaching the youth of the Rogue Valley with God’s story of Hope! Which is so much greater than anything else!
SHANE SKIRVIN, 71Five Campus Coordinator – North Medford
(541) 646-1475 | shane@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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02
Dec '24
Transformed by God.
02
Dec '24
Do you know someone whose life could be transformed by pursuing full-time vocational ministry? Mine certainly was! After seven years with 71Five, I’ve learned that God’s most important ministry is the one He has with my heart as He uses my calling to draw me closer to Him. Would you take a moment to pray and ask God to reveal someone who might be a great fit for these openings?
- 71Five Justice Coordinator: Reach high-risk teens in detention centers, probation programs, group homes, and more. Build lasting relationships that provide hope as they navigate tough situations and re-enter their communities.
- 71Five VoTech Assistant Coordinator: With hands-on, project based learning, and vital life skills training, 71Five VoTech offers real world experiences combined with personal support to advance students toward accomplishing their personal goals. 71Five VoTech serves young people ages 16 – 24 regardless of race, creed, or gender.
- 71Five Adventure Coordinator: Engage youth in outdoor activities like biking, skiing, and backpacking. Foster resilience, trust, and hope through adventures in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- 71Five Internships (3 Openings): A two-year pathway to ministry, interns explore all areas of 71Five Campus, Justice, Mentors, VoTech, and more — then specialize in their second year. Includes a $1,100/month stipend, optional Pacific Bible College partnership, and potential housing.
If someone comes to mind, share this opportunity and help them explore a calling that could change their life! Find out more about these opportunities at 71Five.org… Thank you!
BEAU JESKA, 71Five Operations Director
541.601.9631 | beau@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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27
Nov '24
God With Us!
27
Nov '24
As we celebrate the upcoming Christmas season, we are celebrating the fact that God Himself came ‘near’ through the birth of Jesus (Emmanuel, God with us). He came to help in the struggles of this world and bring us hope. This is in essence what 71Five strives to do. Through seeking out young people, building trusting relationships, and sharing God’s story of hope, we brought God ‘near’ to more than 1100 youth around our Valley this past year. This year has had its challenges, more than any other I can remember. But… We’ve seen God do amazing things in the lives of many young people. Our confidential survey shows what has been accomplished.
• 85% have a decreased interest in using drugs and alcohol!
• 78% reported having fewer thoughts of self-harm!
• 83% say they have more hope for their future!
Would you help 71Five finish strong? Your gifts are investments into the lives of young people, and as you can see, you are accomplishing great things! Will you go above and beyond with a special year-end gift? Our year-end matching gift will double every dollar, allowing us to bring the hope of Jesus ‘near’ to even more lost and hurting young people.
• 85% have a decreased interest in using drugs and alcohol!
• 78% reported having fewer thoughts of self-harm!
• 83% say they have more hope for their future!
Would you help 71Five finish strong? Your gifts are investments into the lives of young people, and as you can see, you are accomplishing great things! Will you go above and beyond with a special year-end gift? Our year-end matching gift will double every dollar, allowing us to bring the hope of Jesus ‘near’ to even more lost and hurting young people.
BUD AMUNDSEN, 71Five Executive Director
541.779.3275 | bud@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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25
Nov '24
Looking For Mentors
25
Nov '24
Cameron is in High School, he and his younger brother go to 71Five. Months ago, they heard finding a mentor was an option. We have been looking ever since. It’s hard to find men like you willing to form 1:1 relationships. These boys have a difficult home life. They are looking for mentors who can bring fun and activity to their lives. Cameron wants to mature and is interested in growing in the mental, physical, social, & spiritual areas of life. When I asked his younger brother “What are you most thankful for right now?” he replied, “The time I get at 71Five.” I have seen the power of 1:1 relationship as the hope of God transforms lives.
With as little as 4 hours per month you could change these young men’s lives not just for fun and for now but for eternity. Thank you for praying, giving, and committing your time to 71Five Mentors. How is God calling you to participate in 71Five Mentors? Contact me today for more information.
WENDY COLLINS, 71Five Mentors Coordinator
541.441.2495 | wendy@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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15
Nov '24
As He Pleases
15
Nov '24
Here’s a saying I often repeat to my staff—
“Faith in Christ is more about revelation than about information.”
This plays out in our efforts to share the life-changing message of Jesus Christ all the time. Young people come to our programs and hear about the hope found in Jesus almost every time they come through the door. We share bible stories, proofs that the Bible is true, our own encounters with God, and proofs that Jesus is who He says he is. We give them all the information they need and can understand but it doesn’t change a thing until God reveals Himself. We’ve had several stories of young people coming to this reality lately. Kids at camp or at club come up to staff and say things like, “God is really here!” or “I know now, God is real!!”
God does as He pleases, but He usually works through the sharing of His Word. It’s you who provide safe spaces and trusted adults so young people can hear the Word and be ready to see God when He shows up… that’s when their lives change forever.
Thank you!!!
BUD AMUNDSEN, 71Five Executive Director
541.301.0897 | bud@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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12
Nov '24
Hungry To Learn
12
Nov '24
Tony is a 20-year-old young man who came to 71Five VoTech back in August. He came in hungry to learn some skills and asked many questions. However, most of his questions were toward the verse of the day we would go over after class. I’ve had the privilege to share the God’s story with Tony multiple times in different ways since August which led to inviting him to Upwards church with me in October. Tony had never been to church. He got to meet Paster Al and some other attenders who welcomed him with open arms. Both 71Five VoTech and the church have been able to answer most of Tony’s questions about Jesus. Because of your partnership with 71Five VoTech, Tony made a confession of faith to Jesus and I had the honor of baptizing him last week!
Tony is in the 71Five VoTech Program taking the electrical track. He is well on his way to earning his pre-apprenticeship BOLI certificate later this month. Through 71Five’s connection in the community… Tony was able to leave fast food employment for a manufacturing job. This young man’s life has changed for the better physically, financially, but more importantly, eternally, thanks to you.
IAN NAMU, 71Five VoTech Assistant Coordinator – Medford
808.371.0240 | ian@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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01
Nov '24
Intamacy
01
Nov '24
Intimacy… it’s something we all crave deep down inside, but we often forget we need. We forget consciously any way. That is the story of a group of teens who came to 71Five Campus on a Friday night. These middle schoolers had been going with the flow, and through the motions, but were craving something more; something meaningful. Some of them had experienced Jesus before, and the life and joy He gives, and others had only dreamt of such fullness and peace. But each of these teens, whether they had experienced the presence of God before, found Him that night. God tells us, through the prophet Jeremiah, that those who seek Him will find Him when they search with their whole heart. There is something utterly beautiful about seeing someone seek God with their entire being… seeking to find much more than a concept or an idea to acknowledge. No, they are yearning for and reaching out to Yahweh for a relationship. This is what true intimacy is. This is the truest form of freedom that we share with every kid who comes to 71Five Campus.
This is what God is doing in the lives of young people in our community.
PETER KUHL, 71Five Ministry Director – Eagle Point
541.630.0648 | peter@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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29
Oct '24
The First Real Smile
29
Oct '24
A couple of years ago Aiden lost his mother to cancer. Since then, it’s been very difficult on Aiden and his brothers. Since I’ve known Aiden, he’s always had sort of a mischievous sense of humor. On Wednesday at 71Five City’s after school Drop-In, I told the story of how I woke up screaming from a cramp in my calf and how it woke one of my siblings up. For some reason, and for the very first time, I witnessed Aiden give a real and genuine laugh and the biggest smile I’ve ever seen from him! This is a huge milestone for Aiden… From a kid who I’ve only seen slightly force a grin or chuckle while he’s busy annoying someone, has now opened himself up with this emotional response. I’m hopeful that Aiden is ready to share the real and genuine young person he is with us.
Thank you for providing the little steps of opportunity for real transformation in the youth at 71Five.
ISAIAH ABNEY, 71Five City – Liberty Park Coordinator
(706) 748-1999 | isaiah@71Five.org
“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB
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