DGLNEXT IS A STRATEGIC INITIATIVE TO Launch DGL GRADUATES into Young Life field staff roles around the world Well-equipped and well-trained
DGLNEXT IS A STRATEGIC INITIATIVE TO Launch DGL GRADUATES into Young Life field staff roles around the world Well-equipped and well-trained
"Developing Global Leaders (DGL) has been called the quiet engine behind Young Life's international growth with approximately one-third of DGL graduates choosing careers as full-time Young Life staff in their home countries. DGL Next is the strategic way we're equipping them to move into those roles as seamlessly as possible."
– Kevin Edelbrock, Vice-President, DGL
How it Works:
Seed Funding: Provides initial support to transition high-level DGL graduates into full-time field staff.
Shared Investment: Offers a financial onramp for the local YL Region/Division to gradually assume full ownership of the staffer’s budget.
Sustainable Support: Gives new staffers a platform to build their own personal support team while the region increases responsibility.
> A one-time gift of $30,000 or $10,000 annually for 3 years jumpstarts the transition
> Each year, the local YL Region takes on a greater share, ensuring sustainability
> by year 3, the staff position is fully funded by the region/division and local supporters
This 3-year step-down funding plan relies on collaboration between the staff member’s Division, Development, and the cultivation of local community supporters to help transition the Division/Local area to full financial ownership and long-term sustainability.
Successful Outcomes of DGL Next:
• A DGL graduate who is fully trained in local Young Life leadership, actively working with teenagers and/or college-aged students, and recruiting volunteers.
• A full-time Young Life field staff member who:
> Understands the dynamics of local-level funding
> Is developing skills in overseeing staff and volunteers
> Is growing in the ability to raise local campership funds to send kids to camp
> Is expanding their ministry oversight
• Offered at least one advancement in title within a five-year period.
