Emerging Young Leaders
Summer Social Justice Cohort for ages 12 - 22
Social justice is the equal access to wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society,
so let discover why in America this is not a reality and what young leaders can do to make a difference.
The emerging Young Leaders Social Justice Cohort is a spirit filled transformational leadership and civic engagement initiated designed to equip youth with the knowledge, exposure and real-world experiences necessary to become socially conscious spiritual leaders. Youth will be involved in a mission based social justice immersion experience. In 2026 we will be traveling to Tucson, AZ with Be the Neighbor as our guides. While there will be involved in our group will immerse themselves in a week of education, collaboration, and hands-on service. Activities are designed to help participants understand what it means to welcome and support our immigrant neighbors. You will engage in desert walks to gain perspective on the challenges faced by those crossing the border, participate in humanitarian aid efforts, and contribute to building projects that support local communities. You will have the option to cross the border into Mexico to work with our partners in Nogales, Mexico. We hope your group will go home ready to partner with neighbors new to your community to welcome, advocate and work for change and hope together!
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Tucson, AZ: Welcoming Our Neighbors
July 26 - July 31, 2026
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Deadline to apply March 30, 2026
Previous Cohorts
Mission Trip to Ft Worth, Texas
July 27 - August 1, 2025
Special "Thank You" to Northeast Area Christian Church in Oklahoma for granting the funds that made this trip possible
About Food Insecurity in Fort Worth
Fort Worth, Texas, faces significant challenges with food insecurity, with over 18% of its residents experiencing difficulties accessing sufficient and nutritious food. This pressing issue highlights the need for effective and compassionate responses from the community.
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During your Be The Neighbor trip to Fort Worth, your group will delve into various aspects of hunger relief through direct engagement and hands-on service. You will partner with local organizations and churches that are actively addressing food insecurity in the area. Activities will include working in community gardens that grow fresh produce for those in need, serving at food pantries that distribute essential groceries, and participating in cooking programs that provide nutritious meals. Your trip will also include opportunities learn about and engage in advocacy efforts aimed at addressing systemic issues related to food insecurity like eliminating food deserts and advocating for fair food policies that promote equitable access to healthy food.
Our trip to Washington, DC
June 13 -19, 2022
A time of learning, sharing and fun
Talking to kids - The Poor Peoples Campaign
Justice Jubilee Handout
Special "Thank You" to Pastor Nathan Hill and the members of University Christian Church, Hyattsville, Maryland for hosting us while in DC, and to our funders the Christian Church in Oklahoma (Reconciliation Ministry), Oklahoma Disciples Foundation and the National Benevolence Association.
Principle 3
When You Lift from the Button, Everybody Rises