IT MATTERS
- "Young Life showed me there was a community of believers out there that truly cared about their relationship with Christ. It really wasn’t until after high school that I was able to refer to the seed that was planted in me and prioritize my relationship with Christ. I was always a believer but after I graduated, I was able to deepen my relationship with my Creator by referring back to things I’d learned from YL, church, family, and friends. I was able to truly set my sights on God and not the things of this world. As an adult I can prioritize my faith and community found in that faith. I can recognize the need for youth to be poured into. I’m working towards a degree in finance which I will complete at the end of this year from LSU. I’m interning at the Bank of Zachary where I’m learning to apply my degree to the banking industry. I’m active with Wyldlife where I get to spend time with my middle school friends! I’m still in the outdoors as always. Most importantly, I’m pursuing my Creator and striving everyday to be more like Him. I know I will truly never measure up but His death and grace are sufficient." - Gabe Jewell
MEET OUR STAFF
Caleb dixon
MISSION STAFF
As a dedicated member of the Young Life volunteer team since 2020, Caleb brings a wealth of experience and passion for ministry to our organization. Since 2019, Caleb has served on staff at Healing Place Church, where he has played a crucial role in leading young people to a deeper relationship with Christ. Caleb leads small groups and kids at camp every summer. In addition to his work at Healing Place Church, Caleb also owns a successful wholesale seafood company and serves on various boards in West Feliciana Parish. His commitment to serving the community and connecting with young people is evident in everything he does. With a heart for ministry and a drive to make a difference, Caleb is an asset to the Young Life team. Caleb looks forward to seeing the impact he will continue to make in the lives of young people in the West Feliciana community.
MELANIE BATES
AREA ADMINISTRATOR
Melanie just joined the Young Life team in March of 2023. She attended her first club in February of 2023 and instantly fell in love with the mission of Young Life. She was brought on to staff as a part time area administrator shortly after her first club experience. Prior to working for Young Life, Melanie was pursuing a career in fisheries biology, but decided she wanted to spend her time serving the Lord and others in a direct ministry environment. Melanie is passionate about the work she is doing and is excited to see where her path with Young Life leads her in the future. Melanie has a bachelor’s degree in natural resources ecology and management with a minor in fisheries and aquaculture and has a passion for sharing her love of the outdoors with kids.
MEET OUR COMMITTEE
CARTER LEAK, IV
CO-COMMITTEE CHAIR
8 YEARS OF SERVICE
BRITTANY LEAK
CO-COMMITTEE CHAIR
8 YEARS OF SERVICE
RACHEL HOWELL
COMMITTEE MEMBER
8 YEARS OF SERVICE
CHERYL FRANKLIN
COMMITTEE MEMBER
6 YEARS OF SERVICE
ANTHONY VERDICANNO
COMMITTEE MEMBER
3 YEARS OF SERVICE
ROBERT HANNA
COMMITTEE MEMBER
3 YEARS OF SERVICE
COREY GILFOIL
COMMITTEE MEMBER
1 YEARS OF SERVICE
WEST FELICIANA
P.O. BOX 2294
SAINT FRANCISVILLE, LA 70775
You Were Made for this
Your story matters, and it can make a difference beyond what you imagine.
Volunteer your time to work directly with young people.
Support the staff and leaders as part of the local adult committee.
Give resources to start or sustain the financial foundation at the local or national level.