Chapel brings life to youth programs

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Chad Strohmeyer
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Being a part of a military family is tough especially on the children. That's why the Yokota Chapel welcomed a new youth programs director to create ways to help youth get involved and feel appreciated.

"My role here at the Yokota Chapel is to create programs for all youth to feel appreciated and welcomed," said Tim Cole, Chapel Youth Programs director. "The programs will be designed to get high school and middle school students involved and to have fun. In a time and a culture that breeds transition, it is important for students and their families to have consistency. That is what 'Club Beyond' is all about. When mom or dad cannot be here because they are serving downrange, we are there to cheer these students on, to encourage them in life, to walk through the hard times and be there for the good times. We live life with our students and celebrate life with them."

Cole is planning on having other programs such as Club Beyond in the future. This will be a weekly event for middle school and high school students of all walks of faith. Expect crazy games, music, food and great discussion.

"We will also offer weekly Bible studies for those who are interested in growing in their faith," Cole said. "In addition to all of this, we will hold several crazy events to laugh and be active. Look for events like Frankfurter Frenzy, Bigger or Better, mystery dinners, movie and video game nights and much more."

Over the course of the next several months, Cole will also be looking to provide service projects and retreats for students and volunteers.

"My family and I are so excited to be here and are quickly recognizing Yokota as our home for a long time to come."

"These programs have made tremendous, positive impact at other bases," said Maj. Christian Chae, deputy wing chaplain, 374th Airlift Wing. "We are excited to see the amazing, life-transforming experiences Tim and 'Club Beyond' will bring to our students here at Yokota."

With only three weeks at Yokota under his belt, Cole is off to a fast start.

"I have already coordinated with several units asking for volunteers," Cole said. "The more help I can get, the better the programs will be, and the more positive impact we can have in our community."

"These programs are vital for our Yokota youth," Cole said. "I look forward to serving all our joint service members and their families so that they can strengthen their spiritual fitness and resiliency."