Working with Desert Reach in Maryvale

Founded in 2003 by Pastor Eli Marez, Desert Reach seeks to reach out to the young people of Maryvale a community in Phoenix Arizona. From job and life skills classes, to guitar lessons, fitness programs and evangelistic outreach, Desert Reach’s goal is to address the whole person and their needs.

We currently reach approximately 100 young people a week through the different life experiences we provide. Our focus is to reach young people who have been labeled ‘At Risk’ and show them that they can have hope and a future.

Twice weekly we conduct job skills and leadership classes. Over 70% of our participants have obtained and kept part time and full time employment.

Through our fitness classes, we have young people who are able to receive fitness instruction and training at a local gym. They are learning healthy habits that will improve their self image as well as their physical well being.

Once a week we conduct a program called Ground Zero. This is our evangelistic outreach to the youth of Maryvale. We make this an environment that anyone, no matter where they lie spiritually, will feel comfortable and at the same time will be challenged to examine their life and seek purpose in a relationship with God. This event occurs in partnership with Fireproof, the youth ministry of Catalyst Church in Phoenix Arizona.

Through our relationship with the Fireproof Youth Ministry and the generous support of the Lynn and Foster Friess Family Foundation, we are able to take 75 - 100 youth to summer camp every year. At camp we see young peoples lives changed for eternity through a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Underlying all these programs and opportunities is the simple concept of an adult befriending a young person and mentoring them as they make their transition into adulthood. In the past, Desert Reach has done this through group mentoring, but now this is a one on one opportunity for youth and adults to benefit from this experience.

Desert Reach simply believes that every young person must have the opportunity to succeed in their academics that will best prepare them for their professional lives. And most of all Desert Reach believes that the most important decision a young person will make, is to be sold out for Jesus Christ.