Building vibrant relationships with Billings South Side youth
Youth Works
Creating Positive Impacts
Engaging South Side Youth
Youth Works’ mission is to ensure that every youth of the South Side has an opportunity to hear and respond to the gospel of Jesus Christ and be disciples.
We unapologetically long for youth to know, love, and follow Christ.
Youth Works Goals
Make Jesus known by providing the opportunity to see the love of Jesus in everyday life.
Be a known presence in the lives of the youth in the South Side community.
HAVE FUN!
One-on-one and group discipleship
Imitate and follow Jesus as we invite youth to follow our example.
Expose youth to a life with Jesus outside of the South Side.
The 316 House
In the summer of 2009, Youth Works embarked on a remodeling project that led them to the 300 Block of Jefferson Street. With the help of neighborhood youth, as well as churches and other volunteers, a townhouse was renovated in the name of Jesus and has become known as “316.” 316 has gone from a residence for families in transition in 2009, to its current model as a community gathering place for children and teens. Re-opening in September 2013, 316 is a now a warm, welcoming environment, open weekly for youth to come and use the internet, play games and hang out, or simply to escape the day-to-day boredom that often leads to trouble. It is there that they interact with our staff and volunteers, seeing and hearing about all that Christ has done for them.
Creating New Experiences
Outreach
We love to bring the youth out for fun, new, exciting opportunities and to create memories through shared experiences.
- Schools
- WyldLife
- After School
- Camping Trips
- Horse Back Riding
- Pool Parties
- Discipleship
Youth works gallery
John Geiger
Youth Works Director
I was born and raised in Long Beach, CA. Since 2004, my wife, Melissa and I have been involved in various ministries, both as volunteers and vocationally, with a focus on inner-city and under-resourced neighborhoods, often working closely with youth. In 2012, after living and serving for four years in a Memphis neighborhood, we were invited to join an ongoing work with youth on the South Side of Billings. This is my second term as the Youth Works Director for CLDI, and I’m grateful to bring my past experience and passion to this role. Melissa and I are blessed with two wonderful daughters, Adelyn and Emery. Our beloved son, Caleb, tragically passed away in a car accident in 2020 and is now with his Savior. God, in His goodness, has used my own experiences and challenges growing up to shape my work and focus, equipping me to better serve and support the youth on the South Side.
“Though he slay me, I will hope in him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.”
Erin Gregory
Youth Works Coordinator
I grew up in Billings, Montana, surrounded by a loving family that has been a blessing in my life. While it wasn’t always easy, my parents served as examples of faithfulness to the Lord, demonstrating what it looks like to have a personal relationship with Him, and to love those around us well.
In 2020, I started serving in a local youth group which lit up a passion I didn’t know I had – working with youth! I knew I wanted to work with students outside of a traditional church setting. I wanted to build meaningful relationships and create a supportive environment for students. I wanted to engage with students in a way that made a lasting impact.
After high school, I took a gap year and after that I was led to an internship at CLDI. The internship provided me with a supportive community, helped develop my leadership skills, and allowed me to engage with students in a new capacity. Throughout the internship we often discussed how God cares deeply for people. Not only those in distant nations, but also for those in our local neighborhoods. I believe that every student matters and is loved, holding immense value and significance. There is much need for students to have a space. My role is to remain open to God’s guidance as I work with students and families on the southside, striving to make a positive impact in their lives.
Sign Up To Be a Volunteer
Learn more about the volunteer opportunities with Youth Works
Donate
Help fund a camping trip, or horseback riding, or provide a meal for the youth works kids at the 316 house. Every dollar makes an impact.