As you likely know, the leadership of Youth-Reach is in transition. For 41 years, our Founder, Curt Williams, has been at the helm. During that long season, he has led fundraising, development, resident care, the pioneering of new campuses, staff relations and has worn many other hats. Coming into this season, it is a blessing that we have a forward-thinking Board of Directors that has been very committed to ensuring Youth-Reach thrives into the next generation.
In 2017, we entered into a planned 10-year transition plan without first knowing who the Lord would appoint to step into Curt’s role. To guide this effort, we enlisted Dr. Dave Robinson, who has provided this service, along with personal coaching, for many pastors, ministries, churches and for-profit corporations. His wisdom has proven to be priceless as he has walked us through many points that might otherwise have been rocky. To date, the transition has been practically seamless, and the peace of the Father has been evident all along the way.
Within a year, it became evident to all involved, especially Curt and Dr. Robinson, that the future role of Executive Director should be set for David Williams. Though they share the same last name, there is no earthly blood shared by Curt and David, but the Lord has certainly knit their hearts together. The vision Curt has carried for over four decades has now been entrusted to David.
This month, we are closing out year nine of the 10-year plan. Over the past year, Curt was to be the “training wheels” and be present if needed. Otherwise, David and the Houston team were allowed to lead. In the coming year, Curt will be mostly off-campus, so the full weight of leadership can rest with David.
To say that we are excited about David’s leadership is an understatement. He is already making small changes for the better and seeking to make Youth-Reach a more joy-filled and fulfilling environment for both residents and our staff. David will be leading the entire ministry of Youth-Reach, including our Alabama and Costa Rica campuses. To better facilitate the growth we expect in the coming years, we are now developing a structure that will provide the leadership, counsel and vision for future Youth-Reach locations.
Some have asked what Curt will be doing. Well, he plans to travel for a few months and then settle back in as an ambassador for Youth-Reach, a personal confidant for David and the lead groundskeeper—as we all know, he loves a tidy campus.
