Our Story

In the 1970s, New York City’s Lower East Side was a battlefield. Gangs and violence took precedence over education and spiritual growth, engulfing the city’s youth in chaos. Among them was Robert “Bo” Nixon, who became a gang member and eventually rose through its ranks to leadership. But Bo’s path of violence was interrupted when Bill Milliken of Young Life took a personal interest in him, disciplining him and showing him, that God had a better plan for his life.

From its inception, New Life has been dedicated to the Lower East Side, providing transformative daily discipleship and vital resources aimed at reshaping the lives of local youth. Initiatives like sports tournaments, sleepaway camps, college tours, after school support, and career readiness have been instrumental in keeping young people engaged, off the streets, and growing in both character and faith.

Over the decades, New Life's impact has expanded beyond the Lower East Side (Manhattan) to Queens and Brooklyn, reaching thousands of youths annually. Today, New Life continues to support youth development empowering our young New Yorkers aged 12-18, by focusing on academic achievement, artistic expression, athletic engagement, service projects, and spiritual formation. 

Through our holistic programming, we not only provide essential support and opportunities but also help our youth to envision and build a brighter, more hopeful future. Together, we are impacting a new generation of leaders and change-makers in New York City. Our vision is that every New Lifer will positively and significantly impact their community, city, and world.