The Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (SVHEC) and Halifax County Young Life are announcing a new partnership to support students at SVHEC.

Young Life is a Christian non-profit that helps students in middle school through college grow their faith through community and mentorship. With this new collaboration, Halifax County Young Life, led by Area Director Matthew Rich, will establish a chapter at SVHEC and host weekly meetings with interested students.

“The SVHEC’s partnership with Halifax Young life means we’re able to provide additional support and engagement opportunities for students and staff. This is a win for everyone, including our community,” said Dr. Betty Adams, SVHEC Executive Director.

Rich stated, “We at Young Life are grateful to be partnering with SVHEC. I am excited to work alongside staff, students, and people from our community to help create belonging, a sense of community, and build teams of leaders for Halifax County and beyond.”

The weekly gatherings will bring together students and volunteer SVHEC staff members to build community through fellowship, bible study, and community service projects. Staff volunteers will serve as mentors for students as they work with them to build a supportive community that extends beyond the classroom. Young Life’s successful framework for engaging students and building community is an important part of SVHEC’s increased focus on student mental health and well-being.