Following WWII, large group rallies became extremely popular in the U.S. as a primary means of evangelism.  As the hunger for God's Word and requests for help with the rallies grew, so did Torrey Johnson's vision for expanding the rallies into a national movement.

In 1944, Johnson, a Chicago pastor, shared this vision with Billy Graham, asking him to become the organizations first employee.  Under Torrey's direction, a committee was formed to provide leadership and strategy for the coordination of the rallies.  Beginning with dozens of cities, Youth for Christ quickly became a national movement with Torrey Johnson as the first president and Billy Graham as its first full-time employee.

"Youth for Christ continues to 
impact young people with the 
message of Jesus Christ before 
it is too late." 
- Dr. Billy Graham

Since the rallies of the 1940s and 1950s, Youth for Christ has grown to include numerous ministries in 80 countries.  Internationally, over 1 million young people participate in our programs on an annual basis.  

Within the United States, there are 201 YFC chapters reaching 1,500 cities and towns.  In the U.S. and around the world, our heartbeat continues to be reaching lost teens. By going where teenagers are and building relationships with them, staff have the opportunity to point them to Christ.


Local History

Over 20 years ago, a group of local people were praying for someone to come and launch a local YFC chapter. In 1985 Ken and Dottie Goss came to Louisville and our local YFC chapter began. Since 1985, God has worked through the staff and programs of YFC to touch the lives of thousands of local teenagers. God has used many people’s prayers, volunteering of time, and the financial support of individuals, corporations and churches to bring hope to young people. Our community is and will continue to be different because of your support!