Uncovering God's Story of Hope
“There are 11-19 year olds who are facing crises like never before. I believe God has uniquely positioned YFC to help uncover God’s story of hope in the next generation. We stand on the shoulders of giants, now at a critical convergence point: A 77-year history of innovative youth ministry; combined with thousands of creative, diverse, and faithful volunteers who are building relationships with kids who need hope. The Gospel of Christ is as powerful and as effective as ever. Kids need to know that the God of the universe loves them, that He Cares for them, and that He wants to offer them eternal and abundant life through His son Jesus."
-Jake Bland
“There are 11-19 year olds who are facing crises like never before. I believe God has uniquely positioned YFC to help uncover God’s story of hope in the next generation. We stand on the shoulders of giants, now at a critical convergence point: A 77-year history of innovative youth ministry; combined with thousands of creative, diverse, and faithful volunteers who are building relationships with kids who need hope. The Gospel of Christ is as powerful and as effective as ever. Kids need to know that the God of the universe loves them, that He Cares for them, and that He wants to offer them eternal and abundant life through His son Jesus."
-Jake Bland
Presidential Announcement, April 1, 2021
Jacob D. Bland was recently named as the 10th President and CEO of Youth For Christ (YFC), which takes effect on June 1, 2021. The YFC National Board of Trustees selected Jake based on his exemplary background within the ministry.
Prior to his appointment as President and CEO, Jake served as Chief of Staff to the CEO at YFC USA. In this capacity, Jake supported the CEO by coordinating YFC’s national executive team, and by positioning the mission for future growth and sustainability. In October of 2018, he was also appointed by the board as President of the YFC Foundation, a unique entity that serves YFC’s ministries and generous families in the US and around the world.
Jakes’s journey with YFC began as a high school student; then as a volunteer and intern. He served YFC’s chapter in Peoria, IL from 2003-2010 as a ministry site director, while teaching as an adjunct faculty member in the Interactive Media Department at Bradley University. Prior to joining the YFC staff, he co-founded two media production companies. He holds a master’s degree in Youth Ministry Leadership from Huntington University, where he graduated summa cum laude.
Jake and his wife, Alison, live in the Denver area, where they attend Lighthouse Church. As a volunteer, Jake serves as an elder in their church, and as the board chairman for Presence Point—a non-profit organization that helps leaders live into their calling.
Jake and Ali have two children: Silas David (6) and Ivy Rehn (4). Their family loves traveling, music, hiking, spending time with friends, and enjoying God’s creation in Colorado.
Family Photo by Meredith Washburn Photography
