ACO Youth · Youth Chapter
ACO Youth · Christ-centered leadership

The ACO Youth Chapter

Finding your true self through service, leadership, and faith.

A Christian-based program where young people unite to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond — part of Africa Cries Out's growing medical-mission network and school service clubs.

ACO youth chapter members together.
Chapter members, serving together.
Finding your true self

Welcome to the ACO Youth Chapter, a Christian-based program where young individuals unite to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

Our chapter is built on the foundation of empowerment, leadership, and compassion, guiding youth toward personal growth and social change rooted in Christian principles.

The chapter is part of how Africa Cries Out develops youth leaders along long-term service pathways — helping students grow from first-time participants into leaders who serve with skill, character, and enduring commitment. The pathway is spelled out in Care → Build → Lead → Mentor.

Teaching and mentoring youth.
Our mission

Five values that guide our chapter.

Each value reflects our Christian faith and shapes how our members serve, lead, and grow together.

01Empowerment

We empower youth to embrace their God-given gifts and talents, providing opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, and helping them lead with courage and conviction.

02Compassion

Compassion is at the heart of our chapter, reflecting Christ's love for others. We empathize with those in need, extend kindness and support, and cultivate a culture of understanding.

03Leadership

We nurture leadership in our members, encouraging them to lead by example, serve others selflessly, and inspire positive change through the guidance of Christian principles.

04Inclusivity

Inclusivity is fundamental to our faith. We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life — embracing everyone as beloved children of God in a supportive environment where all are valued.

05Resilience

We foster resilience, helping members navigate life's challenges with faith and courage — trusting in God's strength to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger in their journey.

Where this is going

From ACO's ten-year plan: within five years, build a complete, systematic youth training curriculum — meant to last and keep improving — so that a short-term mission becomes not merely travel or service, but faith growth, life change, and the discovery of a calling.

Along the way, ACO walks with its youth beyond the trips — with support in college and medical-school applications, career development, and spiritual growth — helping them grow into a new generation of leaders for medical missions and global service.

How to get involved

Join us in impacting lives and building destinies.

The Africa Cries Out Youth Chapter is dedicated to responding to the immense needs of impoverished communities in Senegal. We believe that by improving access to education and healthcare, we can help break the cycle of poverty, hunger, and disease.

You can get involved by contributing your time, skills, and financial resources. Your involvement gives children access to life-changing opportunities such as medical care, educational support, and mentorship — and connects you to ACO's medical-mission network, school service clubs, and youth leadership pathways, with support along the way in college and medical-school applications, career development, and spiritual growth.

Connect with the Youth Chapter

For students interested in joining our team — or simply learning more about the program — please reach out. Parents are welcome and encouraged to be involved.