The Harbor's Mission, Vision,
and Values
Mission
We raise up young leaders in Christ and send them for service to the church and world.
The Harbor accomplishes this through intentional mentorship, collaborative church partnerships, and hands-on leadership development that forms young adults spiritually, vocationally, and communally.
Vision
We envision a future where young leaders are formed, equipped, and sent to serve God faithfully across congregations, communities, and vocations. Through intentional investment by the Church and collaborative, hands-on leadership development, The Harbor seeks to increase the number of discerning, committed workers serving Christ in the church and the world.
Values
Regional – We prioritize collaboration with local churches and nonprofits, fostering a regional perspective on God’s work. By connecting leaders, congregations, and ministries across communities, we encourage cooperative efforts that maximize impact.
Sacrificial – We cultivate leaders who serve selflessly, placing the growth and flourishing of others above personal recognition or task completion. Our leadership is modeled on humility, service, and a commitment to the greater mission of Christ.
Relational – We nurture young leaders within their communities through meaningful relationships. Mentorship, peer networks, and supportive partnerships provide a foundation for growth, accountability, and long-term spiritual and vocational development.
Empowering – We equip young leaders through hands-on learning and meaningful responsibility, affirming each person’s unique gifts. By providing opportunities to serve with purpose and confidence, we enable them to embrace their calling and make a lasting impact.
How The Leadership Collective Works
We collaborate with churches and nonprofits to identify the next generation of christian leaders. Each partner works to identify nominate promising young leaders to explore a unique vocation. These candidates then participate in an interview process to become part of the program.
Partnerships & Nominations
Placement Selection
When a young leader is chosen to join our program, we aim to find the best fit for them among the available opportunities. Each candidate is asked about their learning aspirations, and we strive to identify the ideal placement that aligns with their location, skills, and interests. These placements are frequently within their home congregation, but other options are also considered.
Young Leader Experience
Young leaders are paired with a mentor known as a navigator. During the program, young leaders gain hands-on experience in their chosen vocation. This mentorship also includes practicing spiritual disciplines, such as bible studies and regular prayer with their navigator. Additionally, young leaders participate in field trips to explore how their vocation is applied through various perspectives in ministry.
Leadership Growth and Fellowship
Each month, young leaders gather for personal and spiritual growth. During these meetings, we share meals and enjoy fellowship while exchanging our experiences. Through these interactions, young leaders deepen their understanding of Christian leadership and learn how to live as individuals committed to sharing their faith in all places and spaces.
Program Elements
1
Placement
Your placement is personalized to your support growth and goals, with a commitment of 3–10 hours per week from late August through May. Work schedules are coordinated based on placement needs and your availability.
2
Mentor/Navigator
You'll be paired with a dedicated mentor (Navigator) for guidance and support, unless they already have a trusted adult serving in that role. This leader is there to guide professionally and support spiritual growth.
3
Cohorts
You'll gather once a month in cohort settings to build community and practice leadership tools that strengthen character, decision-making, and real-world impact.