It is always inspiring to see how our alumni are engaging and transforming the world for Jesus Christ by using their gifts and abilities in college, in their careers, and through service to their communities. During this year’s Homecoming celebration, the 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award was proudly presented to Lars and Amy (Kirkland) Carlson, class of 1993.
Lars and Amy met during their time at Lansing Christian School where they were both active in chorale, school musicals, and athletics. After graduation, Lars continued his studies at Liberty University followed by a Master’s in Business Administration from MSU, and Amy attended Western Michigan University where she received her degree in English. Although Lars initially thought he would pursue a career as an airline pilot, Amy and Lars felt God calling them to the ministry at Youth Haven, a camp for disadvantaged children founded by Lars’ grandparents and parents just over fifty years ago. Today, Amy serves as the Director of Marketing and Communication at Youth Haven and Lars stepped into the role of President and CEO after his father’s retirement in 2016, making him the third generation in ministry leadership.
With locations in Michigan and Arizona, Youth Haven is committed to meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of disadvantaged children. At Youth Haven, children learn they are loved, valued, and have the potential to do something great with their lives. Most importantly, they discover God loves them, created them for a purpose, and will never leave them, no matter what they might be going through. Lansing Christian is proud to partner with Youth Haven during Service Week and is honored to celebrate and commend Lars and Amy’s commitment to this ministry with the 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award.
by Melissa Keeley, Development Coordinator
