Greater Erie Youth for Christ welcomes new Executive Director, Jamie Thompson. Jamie comes to Greater Erie YFC from a diverse professional background, bringing with her management experience from private business, government, and non-profit organizations. Jamie is currently working towards her Doctorate in Public Administration and gaining a deeper and biblically-based understanding of the field at Liberty University. Jamie has also demonstrated her heart for young people as a basketball and volleyball coach over the past ten years.
For Jamie, working with YFC gives the opportunity to build authentic Christ-centered relationships with both youth and leaders. “My heart and purpose have always been to know God and to make Him known,” she says, “and relationships are the first conduit to accomplish this!” As the ministry starts up again, Jamie is most excited about seeing young people begin to see their value. “I am excited to find out what they are passionate about, and to do whatever we can to help support their goals, trusting that through a practical love the Lord will provide opportunities to share the Gospel as we live it out and share our stories. I want them to KNOW they are seen, and the more we grow our staff and volunteers the more we can show youth in our communities that they are here for a purpose that is theirs alone.”
Jamie has an amazing vision for Greater Erie YFC. “I believe God wants to do a NEW thing! I see us hosting events for the youth to have fun and get from behind their devices, I see us raising money to provide scholarships for their unique goals, I see community partnerships with other youth-centered organizations to share resources and surround youth with support and guidance. I see their parents, teachers, and siblings wondering ‘what's different’ about the youth we serve, because as we plant seeds of faith to replace the constant messages of fear and rejection, they will have a renewed passion for life and begin to find their confidence in who God created them to be. I see a community transformed through strong leaders. It will not come without opposition so we must be committed to walk through fire and not be surprised when we see the flames!”
The next generation is worth the fight but we cannot do this alone! Please consider joining us in this battle as the Lord leads.