Affinity Networks
What are Affinity Networks?
Affinity Networks are nationwide relational networks that assist youth workers in connecting and co-laboring with their peers in an area of shared calling, giftedness or passion.
Each Affinity Network has an indigenous Leadership Team and a Committed Coordinator with time dedicated to facilitate efforts around a Shared Strategy that can only be accomplished by working together. Aff Nets often meet at Network Forums or alongside other youth worker conventions.
Bottom Line: Are you connected with other youth workers nationwide who share your passion and expertise?
Connect with one
Join one of these existing Affinity Networks:
The Campus Alliance unites youth workers in more than 40 denominations and organizations to reach students from all 56,000 secondary schools in America.
Youth workers adopt schools for Christ in their community at www.EverySchool.com, network their efforts around each campus, and increase the PULSE of their campus outreach.
This coalition of crisis responders coordinates specialized training and resources to help prepare youth workers and local Networks to meet needs when crises strike, such as a teenage suicide, fatal car accident, school shooting, or other trauma. Four levels of involvement and training can be found at www.Youthworkers.net/CrisisResponse.
Welcome to the Deaf Teen Ministry Affinity Network for those involved in ministry with deaf and hard of hearing teenagers! Visit our network website at www.deafministry.org to learn more about this communication network:
- Local, regional and national training opportunities unique to Deaf Teen ministry.
- Resources and materials for youth workers, volunteers and parents.
- A list of youth ministry related resources.
The Mentoring Affinity Network is in the exploration stage (see FAQs section). We are currently trying to establish guidelines for our purpose, focus and levels of involvement. If you are currently leading a mentoring program, interested in starting a program or want materials as a mentor, please let us know of your interest and also feel free to visit MentorYouth.com
An Affinity Network for middle school/junior high workers! Stop by www.middlenet.net to learn more about this Affnet and find:
- Resources and ideas unique to middle school ministry.
- Encouragement and training for youth workers, volunteers and parents.
- A list of national and regional opportunities specifically for middle school/jr. high youth workers
- Insight from pioneers and veterans in middle school ministry.
The Youth Missions Network is a coalition of more than 50 USA-based churches and organizations who minister cross-culturally and internationally. Together they are collaborating to raise a standard of excellence in short-term missions and coordinating efforts related to international trips including the follow-up of student missionaries and development of mission resources.
See www.YouthGoGlobal.com.
With a vision to see a ministry established to Native youth among all First Nation tribes, National Network of Native Youth Ministries links youth workers in meaningful relationships and coordinates efforts to reach shared goals. Trail of Hope was a significant training event held in the summer of 2004 to train and encourage hundreds of Native youth and adult workers.
See www.NativeYouth.com.
The Rural Affinity Network is a Coop for rural youth workers, seeking to partner their efforts in meeting the significant needs of teenagers in small town/rural America. A national advisory council meets regularly and cooperates to provide distinctive training for rural youth ministry in many regions of the USA.
See www.RuralCoop.net.
Urban youth workers connect with each other through www.UrbanYouthWorkers.com, which exists to equip, empower and encourage urban youth leaders. Nationwide, relationships are being linked and relevant urban training is being offered through regional conferences and one-day training events.
The Women in Youth Ministry Network is dedicated to encouraging, equipping, and connecting women in youth ministry through area-wide networking. This vital network has recently expanded their website and is aggressively resourcing youth ministry women across the country.
See www.YMWomen.com.
With so many Christian students losing their faith or facing culture shock once they get to college, this Affinity Network exists to connect graduating students with Christian ministries and churches on their college campuses before they arrive and during their college experience.
See www.LiveAbove.com and www.youthtransitionnetwork.org.