The 1996 General Conference established the Shared Mission Focus on Young People as a global initiative to challenge the denomination to focus on the needs of youth and young adults.

Linda Bales, director of the Shared Mission Focus on Young People, reports on how the initiative helps churches enable young people to become full participants in the church's life and work.

Will Umphres from Walnut Hill UMC in Dallas gleans sweet potatoes during the Yam Jam in Yantis, Texas, sponsored by the Society of St. Andrew. The food was distributed to the poor by more than 50 agencies throughout North Texas.

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Unless otherwise noted, all photographs are copyright © The General Board of Global Ministries, The United Methodist Church and courtesy, New World Outlook magazine.