Instability at home and low self-worth increase children’s vulnerability to addictions and abusive situations that fuel the cycle of homelessness. We want to help protect them by reaching them early with the powerful message of the Gospel: God loves them unconditionally and made them for a good purpose.

UGM Camp is a 125-acre camp along the Spokane River just a one-hour drive away from the city. Every summer, about 500 kids from low-income neighborhoods come to spend a week at camp under the direction of a team of volunteers from a church in their neighborhood. Thanks to the generous groups and individuals who provide camp sponsorships, it doesn’t cost their families a penny.

“It is really fun and it’s free and we get to learn about God. And it’s a good place to be when you need a break from your house. And the counselors are awesome.” – Note from a camper

When children and teenagers have already made mistakes or are in unsafe or unstable situations, they can feel hopeless: “I don’t have a future.”

Youth Outreach meets young people right where they are to deliver a simple but profound message of hope:  Because of Jesus, change is possible. Their future can be redeemed.

Since 1985, UGM volunteers have conducted services and built relationships with the inmates in Juvenile Detention. When we meet teenagers at their lowest point, that’s where the Gospel shows its power.

The Union Gospel Mission’s core value of Stewardship involves planning for the future. Directing and empowering young people to take leadership in ministry is how Youth Outreach embodies that value. We train and prepare the young people God has called to urban ministry because they’re the future leaders in God’s work among the poor and homeless in the Inland Northwest.

“Through these young leaders, God is bringing hope to the lives of young people in our neighborhoods and, in essence, transforming the world.” – Ryan Brown, Youth Outreach Director 

Started in 2015, Student Impact is a group of students from local colleges and universities who are answering God’s call to serve their neighbors in need. Members of the team serve through camp, after-school programs, mentoring, and Juvenile Detention ministry. These young adults bring energy, ideas, hearts of service, and great hope for the future.