Why We Must Stand in the Gap for America's Youth
In Luke 10, Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan-a traveler who sees a wounded man on a dangerous road and chooses to act when others pass by. It's a familiar parable, but one with a powerful truth: someone saw the need and stepped in with compassion.
Our students are walking a similar road.
They're navigating anxiety, bullying, trauma, and identity struggles. Some carry deep emotional wounds; others face real physical threats. Every day, students show up to one of 67,000 public schools or are detained in one of 1,200 juvenile justice facilities across the U.S., crying out-often silently-for hope and healing.
What if the Church became the Good Samaritan in this story?
The Power of Showing Up
The opportunity is urgent-and the potential impact is immense:
- 81% of teenagers spend three-fourths of the year on a school campus.
- 85% of Christ-followers make that decision before the age of 15.
We're not waiting for a crisis moment-we're already in one. But we believe prayer can change the tide.
The Impact of United Prayer
What if the next awakening isn't born in a stadium-but begins on the sidewalk outside your local high school?
Since 1979, National Network of Youth Ministries (NNYM) has existed to unite youth leaders in their mission to disciple students. From See You at the Pole to Prayer Walk Projects, and now through the Symphony of Prayer, we've seen firsthand what happens when the Church prays-and acts.
In partnership with Moms in Prayer, Claim Your Campus, Campus Alliance, and others, we are mobilizing believers to cover every school in prayer-because we believe revival begins where our feet stand.
"I will give you every place where you set your foot."
- Joshua 1:3
Claiming the Ground in Prayer
Footprints on Campus is a key part of the national Symphony of Prayer-a collaborative effort to surround every student, school, and juvenile facility with consistent, Spirit-led intercession.
Just as a symphony blends diverse instruments into a unified sound, this movement brings together churches, ministries, parents, and students in one shared cry:
"Lord, move in the lives of the next generation."
In 2024, we saw:
- Nearly 2,000 schools covered in prayer during Footprints Week
- Over 1,000 campuses adopted for ongoing prayer throughout the year
But there are thousands more waiting.
We need more prayers. More voices. More footprints.
Join the Movement
We're inviting you to respond with compassion, faith, and intentional prayer-just like the Good Samaritan.
Together, we are placing our footprints alongside the next generation.
Together, we are claiming the land for Christ.
Together, we are composing a spiritual symphony that will echo into eternity.
How to Get Involved
You don't need to lead a prayer team or start a new program. Just begin with one simple step of obedience:
GO - Prayerwalk a Local Campus
Commit to pray on-site during Footprints Week: August 11-15. Whether you're a youth pastor, parent, or concerned neighbor, your presence matters. Walk the school's perimeter, pray for students and staff, and believe God will move.
Email footprints@nnym.org to get connected with a local prayer coordinator.
GROW - Adopt a School for Year-Round Prayer
Join the Every Student Every School movement and adopt a school to cover in prayer throughout the year. Your commitment helps sustain a culture of intercession long after August ends.
GIVE - Fuel the Movement
Support student ministry leaders who are bringing the Gospel to campuses across the country. Your gift helps train, equip, and empower those on the front lines of youth ministry.
Take Your First Step
Let's walk the road with our students.
Let's show up, pray boldly, and believe that God will move.
- Mark your calendar for August 11-15
- Find a nearby school and start praying
- Invite a friend, small group, or church to join you
- Download prayer resources at nnym.org/footprints
- Adopt a school and commit to year-round intercession