Small Beginnings
In 1960, YWAM was birthed by Loren Cunningham in Southern California. The first office (a bedroom) was in Pasadena. The International Office was in Burbank from 1970 to 1972. At that time, the tiny mission organization operated summer outreaches called "Summer of Service" and one week target outreaches in various cities called "Domestic Crusades."
YWAM grew in large numbers as a result of the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. In 1974, John Dawson and other key leaders returned to Los Angeles to pioneer the base in Los Angeles. Loren Cunningham commissioned John and Julie for that work in 1975.
Multiplication
YWAM Los Angeles began to grow as youth from local churches were mobilized in citywide outreaches. The first Discipleship Training School (DTS) was born, and students lived in two houses in Sunland. As the school increased, new and larger facilities were needed.
God's Gift
Osborne Neighborhood Church of Arleta contacted John Dawson regarding church property in Lake View Terrace. Allowing us to assume the debt and take over payments, the L.A. leaders agreed and the Lake View Terrace headquarters was established. At that time, the only buildings were today’s dining hall and a small chapel (today’s mailroom).
Growth
DTS lectures were held on the Lake View Terrace property in the fall of 1976 though some students still had to be housed in Sunland. Construction was finished on the first office building in 1978 and five mobile homes were added in the early 80’s. The rest of the mobile homes arrived in 1987. A Master Plan is currently in progress for the replacement of the mobile homes with permanent condo-type structures. A number of multi-purpose buildings are also planned.
Around the World
Teams from early schools ministered regularly in Mexico and were involved in a wide variety of activities such as evangelism (using dramas, music, and puppets), Bible-distribution, and mercy ministry projects such as supplying food. As a result, new bases have been established in Mazatlan and Tijuana. YWAM Los Angeles has had the privilege of helping pioneer bases in Denver, Chico, Las Vegas, San Diego, Seattle and other places worldwide.
Dave Gustaveson, the current director, came to YWAM Los Angeles in 1987. Dave helped establish the vision of mobilizing local churches for world evangelism, which resulted in a variety of effective ministries and programs.
Just the Beginning
In many ways, we are just beginning and the most exciting days are yet ahead. Please consider joining the YWAM Los Angeles family as we help transform the world.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11-12)
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| Framing of the prayer chapel | Groundbreaking for the International Outreach Center |