We are continually investing in the next generation of leaders

The Next Generation Initiative (NGI) exists to develop the next generation of youth pastors and leaders to reach the next generation of students. While providing winter retreats for high school and junior high students, the NGI primarily focuses on coaching and training youth pastors and volunteer youth leaders.

Bob Long, Director of Student Ministries, functions as a "pastor for youth pastors" for Converge MidAmerica. Bob Long is also available to consult with churches on youth ministry issues.

Bob Long is a 35+ year youth ministry veteran.  For 20 years he served in four churches in suburban Detroit, Michigan; Dallas, Texas; Wheaton, Illinois; and most recently at Moraine Valley Church, Palos Heights, Illinois.  He was a volunteer leader in several other churches and currently is a partnering with a church in Elk Grove Village, IL to help them develop their youth ministry leadership.

For the past ten years, he has coached and trained youth pastors and volunteer youth leaders as the Director of Student Ministries for Converge MidAmerica.  He is also the founder of the Next Gen Leadership Academy, a leadership development program for 16-20 year olds.

Bob’s spiritual gifts, strengths and passions are in leadership development and wisdom.  He is a strategic thinker.  He is passionate about training and equipping Christians to do ministry.

“I love students and I love the people who work with them.”

Upcoming Events

SNOW DAZE Winter retreat for junior highers at Lake Geneva Christian Camp in Wisconsin - January 25-27, 2013.

SNOWBLAST Winter retreat for high schoolers at Expeditions Unlimited Camp in Baraboo, Wisconsin - February 15-18, 2013.