Our Strategy

Ground Zero is a place where every teenager can Go, Belong and Grow. Through life-changing experiences and nurturing relationships, we make a positive impact in the lives of today’s teenagers, cultivating their faith and transforming their futures. 

We do this through a three-part, integrated approach:

REACH 

GZi

GZi is a high-energy weekly gathering that is all about building relationships. Teenagers can hang out with their friends, enjoy a live DJ, grab food in Top Nosh, get a coffee drink at the GZ Coffee Shop and engage in interactive experiences. Teenagers also hear from a dynamic communicator and participate in group discussion about a relevant topic or issue they face. GZi is the place to be each week, a place where teenagers can belong and grow in a supportive, fun environment.

iEvents

iEvents are high-energy entertainment experiences that teenagers won’t be able to stop talking about. We bring together nationally known bands, artists, performers, athletes and entertainers to create unforgettable experiences that deliver world-class entertainment with a clear gospel message. iEvents will capture teenager’s attention, and will forever change their life! 

School Assemblies 

Ground Zero school assemblies are provided at no cost as a blessing to our local middle and high schools. Communicators include nationally known bands, artists, performers, athletes and entertainers, delivering powerful and positive messages. These assemblies do not include a faith-based message, but rather a positive message with speakers skilled at engaging diverse school environments.


EQUIP 

Ground Zero Magazine

The GZ Magazine, a monthly publication serving as a comprehensive guide to all the happenings at Ground Zero. It features a daily devotional and series memory verse from the ongoing series at GZi, ensuring spiritual nourishment throughout the week. Branded to align with the current series, the Ground Zero Magazine provides a cohesive experience for readers. In addition to spiritual content, it offers insights into coffee shop specials, Stage Left specials, and newly released merchandise. Readers can stay informed about upcoming events and enjoy interviews with Christian artists. With contributions from youth pastors and national youth communicators, The Ground Zero Magazine aims to help readers deepen their relationship with Christ. It serves as a one-stop resource to get involved in the GZ community and grow spiritually.

iGroups

iGroups are consistent, dedicated groups of teenagers that are led by caring adults. iGroups give teenagers a chance to build safe relationships and navigate faith and life together. In addition, teenagers have opportunities to participate in outings to strengthen relationships throughout the year.   

iWeekend

iWeekend events are one-day weekend events or overnight retreats that help teenagers strengthen their relationship with God and others through a unique experience. iWeekend events feature life changing communicators, engaging activities and memorable faith-defining moments as students get away from daily life and go deeper in their faith.

 

SEND 

iGrow

iGrow is a weekly experience focused on developing teenagers' faith and unleashing their leadership potential. Time is spent exploring the Bible and discovering what it has to say about their lives, while learning to serve in different areas of the ministry, such as GZ Coffee Shop (coffee and pastries), Top Nosh (food prep and service), Production (sound, lights, visuals), Stage Left (merchandise), First Impressions (student check in and first time guests), Interactions (organizing and leading games) and more.

iLeaders 

Ground Zero thrives on teenagers’ involvement in the ministry. iLeaders are middle and high school students using their gifts and passion to impact their peers, their campus, their community, and their world. Ground Zero is committed to raising up this generation of leaders with coaching, training, mentoring and support. 

 

CommUNITY

iWorship

iWorship is a worship experience featuring nationally known speakers and powerful worship, all centered on helping students grow in their faith. At iWorship events, we address a relevant topic while also presenting opportunities for teeangers to begin or grow in their relationship with Christ. There's no charge for this worship experience, but you must sign up to secure your place at this transformative event. 

Youth Worker Dinner

Get ready for an evening of inspiration and connection at the Ground Zero Youth Worker Dinner! Whether you're a paid professional or a dedicated volunteer, this event is tailor-made for you, your spouse and your whole adult youth ministry team. Enjoy a delightful meal, engage in worship, and be uplifted by a special message from a noational youth leader or a talented Christian artist. This evening is designed to lift you up, encourage you, and remind you of the incredible impact you make in the lives of young people. Don't miss out on this chance to recharge, connect, and celebrate the meaningful work you do. There is no cost to participate, but you must sign up. 

iTraining

Get ready for a morning of inspiration and growth with a national youth ministry expert at the Ground Zero iTraining! This event is a must-attend for both paid and volunteer youth leaders. Bring your entire team to enjoy a full hot breakfast and the chance to connect with one another. Our expert presenters will tackle relevant topics addressing today's youth ministry challenges, aiming to encourage and equip you and your team for even greater impact. This is a unique opportunity to glean insights, share experience, and strengthen your approach to youth leadership. There is no cost to participate, but you must sign up.

Youth Worker Gathering

Join us for laughter, fun and a little competition! These events are exclusively for youth workers, whether you're a paid professional or a dedicated volunteer, and it's the perfect opportunity to bring along your spouse. These engaging gatherings are a time to get to know each other, and strengthen the bond among area youth workers. Please note that we are unable to accommodate youth ministry teams. There is no cost to participate, but you must sign up.

* The Youth Worker Gathering is for lead youth workers and their spouses. We are unable to acommodate youth ministry teams.