L’Damian Washington will return to Columbia for an opportunity to connect with the youth of Young Life in early February.

Young Life is a program that connects high schoolers with adult mentors, allowing them to build trust and relationships with one another. Young Life Area Director Luke Neal says L’Damian is a relatable, positive influence who can really identify with local students.

“These kids have a lot of ideas floating around in their heads, and they’re starting to develop their worldview, but a lot of that is abstract right now,” Neal says. “Having someone like L’Damian share his story helps them connect the dots. It helps them turn these ideas into something concrete.”

Instead of being a “hangout spot,” Young Life goes into the community and finds kids on their home turf. The mentors of Young Life go to their high schools, musicals, lunch rooms, and sporting events to meet kids where they are and forge a positive relationship.

Neal also hosts a Bible study group for male athletes at Battle High School, a group he knows L’Damian will connect with.

“For these kids, L’Damian is very relatable,” Neal says. “They hear advice from us all the time, but hearing it from L’Damian is something different.”

“Hearing it from someone who’s had success in football, someone who’s been through the same things they have—that can be life-changing.” – Luke Neal, YoungLife

Contact L’Damian for more information about booking an upcoming speaking engagement.