Ignite is committed to assisting in the development and enhancement of young lives as well as positively effecting our community. In order for Ignite to operate at its fullest we recognize the need to team up with individuals, organizations and foundations that strive for excellence. Your investment will enable us to improve our infrastructure as well as provide opportunities to expand our vision. Please continue reading to find details on how your support can help us achieve this vision. Thank you for your time and support!

History

Approximately 10 years ago Pastor Mark Vega recognized the need to develop and equip youth to become influential leaders in their local schools, churches and communities. In 2006 Ignite internship was born.  This 9 month program was created to provide students ages 18 and up with the opportunity to develop their ministerial profession. As participants of this program they receive training in mind, body and spirit through course studies, hands on training, daily devotions and physical exercise.  Upon completion of the program they are eligible to apply for ministerial credentials. Although this program proved to be highly effective it became evident that youth of various ages would benefit from the discipline and training provided. In 2007 a 8 week accelerated summer internship was developed for students ages 14-24 and in 2009 a 2 week program was formulated for students ages 9-13.

Needing a facility for the internship and its growing outreaches, Ignite was transitioned from Tampa to Gainesville, Florida into a 6 building campus.  The acquisition of the property included an 800 seat sanctuary, childcare center, dining hall/kitchen and more than 40 classrooms. 

As of August 2011, Ignite has graduated approximatley 300 students, weekly led over 100 constituents and reached more than 65,000 lives by way of local, national and international outreaches.

Current Needs

As the number of single parent homes rapidly increases, statistical evidence proves that this augments the number of youth that are directly affected.

• 63% of youth suicides are from fatherless homes
• 90% of all homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes
• 85% of all children that exhibit behavioral disorders come from fatherless homes
• 71% of all high school dropouts come from fatherless homes
• 85% of all youths sitting in prisons grew up in a fatherless home

The Apostle Paul said we have thousands of instructors but few fathers. We have seen the increasing need to reach out to at risk youth of this nation and worldwide.  We have found that if we can provide them with the crucial mentorship and guidance they have been lacking, a young life can be redirected and altered into a holistic influential individual in their society.

Mission

The Mission

Ignite is a non- profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to helping at risk youth from various backgrounds achieve success in society and ministry. Our intent is to produce vocal and active individuals who can effectively and positively shape their communities.

Ignite provides hope by meeting both the tangible and spiritual needs of our communities. We supply food, clothing, life rehabilitation and training through various ministries and outreaches. It is our vision to reach the hurting people within our communities and equip them with the necessary resources to develop their skills enabling them to achieve a bright future and make a difference.

The Effect

The work of Ignite is rapidly spreading all across the country and around the world.  Students who have graduated our program are currently serving their own communities in various life altering ways. They have encompassed all that was imparted to them and are sharing it with the thousands of lives in need within their reach.

It is our goal within the next five years to establish centers throughout the regions of this nation as well as internationally. We are currently in the provisions of establishing two additional branches by the summer of 2011.

The Appeal

In order for Ignite to successfully impact young lives the proper components must be in place.  There are several pressing needs that require immediate attention to ensure the quality and effectiveness of this program.

• Scholarship Programs
• Building Renovations
• A/C Repairs and Replacements
• Additional Fire Safety Equipment
• Replacement of Audio/Visual Equipment
• Transportation