Belong. Grow. Lead.
Students finding faith, friends, and a place to serve.
You Belong Here
Yates Youth is a place to belong, grow, and lead. We welcome middle and high school students and their friends. Yates is a Safe Sanctuary church. Volunteers are screened and trained. Read our policy.
Mackenzie Smith is our Minister to Youth and Children. She’s a deeply devoted Christian who wants others to learn the joy of knowing and following Jesus. She cheers on questions, creates space to belong, and belts Disney ballads. She is also a proud Tar Heel and Blue Devil — a strange and potent combo.
Sundays 9:15 am — Sunday School in the Attic. We start together for fun and announcements, then split into smaller groups for study and prayer.
Sundays 5:00–6:30 pm — Sunday Nights with dinner, student-led music, scripture, prayer, and activities.
We serve with local partners and step into God’s work near and far. Students learn to love neighbors, practice compassion, and lead through service.
Jump in as a participant or a volunteer. We’ll match you with projects that fit your gifts and schedule.
Find Out More
Students help lead worship in band and ensembles. There is room for every skill level.
Explore Youth MusicOctober 10–12, 2025 — Glade Valley, NC
The vibe: three worship gatherings with solo devotion time, one big group game (“Beardos”), hikes, canoeing, sunrise silence, naps, and unhurried time together. Kids, youth, and adults help lead worship.
Cost & Scholarships (Pay-What-You-Can) — No one is left out because of cost. Suggested: $160 youth · $120 adult · $120 child · $350 family max. Sponsors and scholarships are available—just ask.
Travel
- Fri Oct 10 — Families arrive and settle in at your pace.
- Sun Oct 12 — Depart around noon; picnic lunch at a scenic stop; back to Yates ~4:00 pm.
Housing
- Families in private cabins (one per family).
- Youth, college, and adult leaders in a bunk-style cabin.
- Saturday night contemplative service with childcare provided.
Packing
July 2025 — EMU, Harrisonburg, VA
Serve, worship, and grow in community. Passport brings students together to follow Christ through service, study, and shared life.
Dance Party Theme: Cosmic Cow Neon Glow
Payments
Pay for camps, trips, and activities online. It’s secure and simple.
Instagram is updated frequently to communicate in real time. Follow @yatesyouthandkids.
Who can come to Sunday Nights?
Middle and high school students are the focus. Friends are welcome. Parents and caregivers are welcome. We don’t look for ways to keep anyone out.
Where do we meet?
Usually in the Attic. .
How do I get the weekly email?
Email Mackenzie — she’ll add you to the list.
Can I volunteer as an adult?
Yes. We’ll talk about fit, schedule a background check, and provide training. Read Mackenzie’s for volunteers.
What about safety and supervision?
Yates cultivates a culture of safety and trust for all with our Safe Sanctuary policy. Volunteers are screened and trained. Read policy.
