The Wells County Chamber of Commerce staff and Ambassadors recently surprised BIGJAWS Youth for Christ (YFC) with the January Member of the Month recognition, honoring the organization for its continued commitment to serving youth and strengthening communities across the region. The recognition was presented in front of the BIGJAWS YFC team, providing an opportunity to celebrate both the organization’s mission and its long-standing impact throughout Wells County and beyond.
Following the presentation, Executive Director Brock Meyer shared his appreciation for the recognition and highlighted the importance of strong community partnerships. He noted that the Chamber plays a vital role in connecting organizations and businesses that share a common goal of investing in the future of the community. “The Chamber does an incredible job of supporting organizations like ours,” Meyer said. “They help create opportunities for collaboration and connection, which ultimately allows us to better serve young people and the community as a whole.”
That commitment to collaboration aligns closely with the mission of BIGJAWS YFC, which is preparing to celebrate 35 years of ministry in 2026. The organization serves students ages 11 to 19 across Blackford, Grant, Jay, Adams, and Wells counties, focusing on building intentional, meaningful relationships with young people. BIGJAWS YFC meets students where they are, primarily in schools and community settings, through mentorship, leadership development, and faith-based outreach. “Our mission is centered on relationships,” Meyer explained. “Many of the students we work with don’t have a trusted adult in their life. Being that consistent presence—someone who listens, shows up, and believes in them—can truly change the trajectory of a young person’s future.”
To support that mission, BIGJAWS YFC operates with a team of approximately 26 staff members, most of whom work directly in the field. Meyer shared that the majority of the team spends their time in schools and throughout the community, building one-on-one connections with students during some of the most formative years of their lives. In addition to direct mentorship, the organization partners closely with schools, churches, and community organizations to provide programming and support that addresses social, emotional, and spiritual needs. Meyer emphasized that the work is intentionally focused on long-term impact. “When we invest in youth, we’re investing in the future of our communities,” he said. “Strong relationships today lead to stronger leaders, families, and communities tomorrow.”
As a nonprofit organization, BIGJAWS YFC relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers, churches, grants, and community partners to sustain its programs and expand its reach. Meyer encouraged community members to get involved in whatever way they feel called, whether through volunteering, prayer, or financial support. “We couldn’t do this work without the support of people who believe in what we do,” he added.
Community members can learn more about BIGJAWS YFC by visiting their website, bigjawsyfc.org, or by following BIGJAWS YFC on Facebook. Those interested in supporting the local chapter or learning more about its programs are encouraged to contact Executive Director Brock Meyer by email at info@bigjawsyfc.org, or via phone at (260) 824-1330. The BIGJAWS YFC office is located at 360 N. Main Street, Suite C.
Pictured holding the recognition sign in the photo, from left to right, are Rhonda Beall, YFC Chief Development Officer, and Brock Meyer, YFC Executive Director. Chamber Ambassadors, Chamber Board members, and BIGJAWS YFC team members are also pictured in celebration of the recognition.