About Us

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New Directions is Greenfield's ecumenical community youth ministry for students in grades 4-12.  New Directions began on May 1, 1989 and exists to love and accept youth where they are, share the gospel of Jesus Christ, and nurture and equip youth to honor and serve God as they grow in their Christian faith. 

Small groups of students meeting weekly with an adult leader to share life, explore scripture and build community.  

Students participate in a variety of long and short-term service opportunities.  Examples include: collecting and sorting food for the Greenfield Area Christian Center Food Pantry, raking leaves, assisting community members with Christmas decorating, baking and distributing Christmas cookies, and filling Blessings in a Bag to be distributed to elementary students who are food insecure.  

Short-term groups are offered by community leaders according to their interests.  Recently students have enjoyed: "Wednesdays in the Woods" exploring local trails and nature sites, art therapy, cooking, ceiling tile painting and creative writing.  

NDYMB- The New Directions Youth Ministry Board comprised of 9 community leaders who are responsible for the oversight of the ministry which includes the youth director, visioning, approval of the adult leadership, the budget and fundraising

YOUTH DIRECTOR - Tonia McLanahan is responsible for the day to day operation of the ministry. 

ADULT LEADERSHIP - trained ministry partners who work directly with the youth as CONNECT and LIfegroup leaders.  They also are involved service projects, special events, summer DIGGs and many other aspects of the ministry.

HSLT - High School Leadership Team are student leaders who work with the youth director to plan and lead weekly meetings, service projects, Lifegroups and special events.  They also decide on the yearly theme, make decisions about the meeting space and are an invaluable source of wisdom for the youth director.