A History
Vida Joven de Nicaragua (Young Life of Nicaragua) is a vibrant ministry in one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Senior Area Director Kevin Suwyn, along with a hearty team of 25 national staff, are in the midst of a long labor of love that began over 20 years ago under the direction of Jim Hornsby.
Now, nearly all of the direct ministry is under Nicaraguan leadership — staff and volunteer leaders. Vida Joven unfolds from work in the capital city of Managua and the mountain town of Matagalpa to clubs in seven major cities throughout the country. Volunteer leaders, much like those in America, spend time hanging out with kids, getting to know them, going with them to club, and bringing them to camp, where they clearly hear the message of the Gospel.
Now, nearly all of the direct ministry is under Nicaraguan leadership — staff and volunteer leaders. Vida Joven unfolds from work in the capital city of Managua and the mountain town of Matagalpa to clubs in seven major cities throughout the country. Volunteer leaders, much like those in America, spend time hanging out with kids, getting to know them, going with them to club, and bringing them to camp, where they clearly hear the message of the Gospel.
Vida Joven in Granada
Responding to the Police commissioner's request for more Granada youth programs, we invited Vida Joven to open its first Granada club in 2008. Given its success, we have opened our second club in Escudo, with others planned throughout the city, including the Stadium, La Villa, Pantanal, and La Sabaneta.
Over 400 youth participate in events throughout the week, finding alternatives to gangs and drugs. We are under way with developing 5 clubs throughout the city, each year sending youth to a leadership training camp in Matagalpa, where Vida Joven started over 20 years ago. Granada Vida Joven Leaders reach out to youth on a weekly basis, hosting events, organizing trips to camp, and simply spending time getting to know teens and their families.
To reach teens more personally, Vida Joven youth not only go to Club each week but also attend 10 camps throughout the year, inviting newcomers to find out more about a personal relationship with Christ. Groups also do activities such as sports, hikes, team building, etc. Leaders go to 3 camps throughout the year to grow spiritually and in their leadership skills. Vida Joven Granada currently has 40 youth taking up leadership of their own club as those who started the club move on to start others throughout Central America.
