Making a positive difference

International Youth of Unity

The International Youth of Unity (IYOU) is a program of Unity Worldwide Ministries, under its tax-exempt status and bylaws. The bylaws previously in place for IYOU have been dissolved and replaced with policies and procedures, which extend only to international-sponsored events. International Youth of Unity honors the unique needs of its regional and individual ministries and does not require that regions and/or church youth programs adhere to these policies in structuring their own programs.

History

Youth of Unity began as Chi Lambda Epsilon in 1936 to “establish spiritual co-operation among the youth of the world.” This was changed to Young People’s Christian Unity (YPCU) in 1936. In 1937 at the Second Annual YPCU Conference the name was changed to Youth of Unity (YOU).

Vision Statement:  As a Spirit-led youth movement, we empower individuals around the world on their spiritual journey.

Purpose Statement:  We manifest our vision through these eight intentions:

  • Worldwide Service
  • Clear communication using technology
  • Practice and promotion of spiritual principles
  • Leadership
  • Events
  • Prosperity
  • Supportive community/connections
  • International development

What is YOU?

The Youth of Unity (YOU) is an international youth group for teens ages 14-18 (grades 9-12). The purpose of YOU is to encourage and assist in the spiritual growth of all young people who are seeking to express the indwelling Christ in accordance with the principles of practical Christianity as taught and interpreted by Unity Institute and Unity Worldwide Ministries. YOU provides youth the opportunity to explore Unity's principles and other truth teachings and to demonstrate these in their daily lives.

How do I get involved?

Any Unity church or study group affiliated with Unity Worldwide Ministries may facilitate an active YOU group. Find an active YOU group in your area.

IYOU Event

Regional Resources & Info

What is an active YOU group?

In order to attend an international IYOU event, participants from the United States and Canada must be part of an active YOU group/chapter which:

  • Is under the direction of a recognized Unity member ministry of Unity Worldwide Ministries
  • Is active in their regional YOU
  • Includes one or more teens ranging from the ages of 14 through 18 years of age and at least one adult sponsor


These eligibility requirements replace the previous program of chartering through Unity Worldwide Ministries.

A YOU group typically meets on a weekly basis, usually Sunday morning. Youth discuss and learn a variety of spiritual teachings, attend social gatherings, and become involved in their church and community. Officers, or a leadership team, are often elected to help plan for the local group.

Who is the International Teen Ministry Coordinator?

Rev. Dr. Jane Simmons is our International Teen Ministry Coordinator. The coordinator is employed by Unity Worldwide Ministries in Lee's Summit, Mo. The coordinator, in collaboration with teen members of an International Event Planning Team (Indies), co-creates the International Youth of Unity program and is a resource to field ministries.
 

What is Unity Worldwide Ministries?

Unity Worldwide Ministries is comprised of approximately 1,000 member ministries and satellite ministries throughout the world.

Unity Worldwide Ministries home office in Lee's Summit, Mo., is dedicated to supporting and strengthening its member ministries by providing human resources, administrative and educational programs.