OUR MISSION 

JJM seeks to engage young people in relational outreach as they are met in a variety of youth-serving institutions (detention centers, probation, correctional facilities, group homes, residential treatment centers and emergency shelters). Even though our first contact is in a variety of institutions, we are committed to long-term relationships that last after the teen has left the facility. Our focus is balanced ministry that emphasizes the spiritual, physical, mental and emotional aspects of life.

LOCATIONS

Juvenile Justice Ministry (JJM) currently serves six ministry sites across metropolitan Chicago, the greater Chicago area, and Northwest Indiana. These locations include urban and suburban settings, allowing us to connect with many young people and reach up to 1,000 young people in detention centers weekly. Through consistent presence, mentoring, and sharing the hope of Jesus, we are building trusted relationships and offering a pathway to restoration and transformation.

ILLINOIS YOUTH CENTER St. CHARLES

Average Population: 50
Ministries: Bible Studies, mentoring, art and sports ministries, game nights
Nights: Tuesdays & Thursdays, days/times for mentoring vary
Partnerships: Wheaton College
Contact: Derek Polansky
dpolansky@yfcchicago.org

Illinois Youth Center Warrenville

Average Population: 25 Co-ed
Ministries: Bible Studies, mentoring, art and sports ministries, game nights
Nights: Tuesdays & Thursdays, days/times for mentoring vary
Partnership: Wheaton College
Contact: Derek Polansky
dpolansky@yfcchicago.org

Lake County Juvenile Detention Center (indiana)

Average Population: 45
Ministries: Bible Studies, Arts, and Sports Ministries
Nights: Thursdays
Partnerships: Momentum Church, Faith Church
Contact: Jeremy Melf
jmelf@spyfc.org

Will County Detention Center

Wilderness Trips

Summers & Retreats
Available to all YFC students at low or no cost
Partnerships: Created for More Ministries Contact: Derek Polansky
dpolansky@yfcchicago.org

GET INVOLVED

With the Great Commission, Jesus commands us to go and reach the lost in their world. Jesus also speaks in Matthew about ministry to “the least of these” and we believe that the youth involved in systems are part of that focus. We know that the Father will equip those He calls to this ministry, and believe that He calls all types of people to this ministry. There are a variety of ways to partner with JJM.