Over the last 5 years, UYWI has been working hard to be laser-focused on developing healthy, high-capacity, and high-impact urban leaders. We have designed, tested, and improved our core programs of Resources, Certification, Coaching, and Networks. Out of this intentional season, we have seen significant outcomes. Leaders that have been trained under our renewed programs…

Maritza Rebollar was born in the U.S. but grew up in Mexico. She loved her life and community there, yet at 17-year-old she returned to the United States despite wanting to stay in Mexico. Today, Maritza shares that the move kept her from choosing many different things as it shifted the trajectory of her life…

Developing Gospel-Centered Leaders through UYWI The UYWI Certification Program and coaching through the Congregational Leadership program  have been significant in Jesse Lobato’s personal and leadership growth, as well as the growth of the youth ministry. Creating his Mission Action Plan (MAP) gave Jesse a direction to run in the ministry. Prior to his MAP he…

Discipleship that Inspires Perseverance While dealing with mental health challenges, Jesse Lobato dreaded leading Wednesday nights. It felt like no one wanted to be there, and because of the pandemic, they were teaching more than just the Word of God. Without realizing it, they were teaching the youth how to socialize again and how to…

Transforming the Next Generation through Hope in Christ From Michoacán, Mexico to South Central Los Angeles, to Watts, CA, Jose Hernandez grew up as one of a handful of Latinos in a racially tense community. As such, his family was often preyed upon. Not only was he experiencing violence outside his doorstep, but Jose also…

Youth Ministry Saves Lives Jesse Lobato, took one year of Bible college after high school and developed a deep tug towards serving the inner city. During that time, he read how Chicago was having a horrific amount of casualties. That year, several young people were killed as well as others who were in the wrong…

From Transitional Beginnings to Stability in Christ His father being wildly abusive in nearly every way towards his mother, Jesse Lobato and his two older siblings left New Jersey for Salem, MA with their mother. Jesse lived with his mom during the week and vacationed with his dad throughout the year. His dad had a…