Established in 1981, Long Island Youth Mentoring (formerly known as Long Island Youth Guidance) was founded to reach at-risk youth not easily served by a mainstream outreach and ministry approach. Under the leadership of Jack Crabtree, a one-to-one mentoring model was implemented, opening the door of hope to young people in unique and trying circumstances. In 1986, the baton was passed to John Cragg (executive director, 1986-2023).

In the years that followed, the ministry scope grew to encompass the whole of Long Island. One-to-one mentoring is the cornerstone upon which expanded programs were pioneered including our Homework Club (1992), national ministry training program (2005), Mother’s Ministry (2006), Bridges group home outreach (2008), and our monthly group activities that help grow the mentoring relationships and expose our mentees to events that they may not ordinarily experience.  

Through the vision of then Executive Director, John Cragg and the overwhelming investment of donors, a dilapidated building was transformed into LIYM’s ministry center in 2011. This ministry center serves as an activities center for mentors and mentees, a meeting place with our partners, an office for Case Managers and staff, and the ideal headquarters from which to pursue our mission of serving at-risk youth.

In 2022, Bobby Vasquez, a long-time supporter and dedicated board member, took on a more active role by partnering with our previous Executive Director, John Cragg, as the Executive Liaison to the Board of Directors. With a deep knowledge of the organization's values and goals, Bobby worked alongside John on a transition plan as he neared retirement. In 2024, the Board of Directors unanimously voted to appoint Bobby as the new Executive Director. This transition marks a significant milestone in our journey, one that comes with both excitement and great responsibility, as the Ministry continues to adapt and grow to meet current needs and greet new opportunities.

For nearly 45 years, thousands of children, teens and families have benefitted from safe and effective mentoring. Long Island Youth Mentoring continues its Kingdom work to partner with the Christian Church to bring hope, light and a future to the children of Long Island.