It's been a season of transition for Rainbow's End Youth Services (REYS) in Mount Joy, and the nonprofit organization is ready for something new.

In mid February, Mark Unger became the new executive director of REYS, bringing with him a rich background in service.

"Mark is a natural leader, a go-getter, and most importantly, he's passionate about Jesus and bringing people to Him," said Jill Meador, REYS board chair.

Last fall, three of the organization's five staff members announced plans to leave for other positions, Meador said, and REYS had to pivot. The center paused programming and refocused while preparing for the departure of executive director Cristina Paden, who stayed on through early 2024 to help ease the transition.

REYS has since hired a new office assistant and a community engagement coordinator, along with Unger.

"We truly felt God's hand throughout the process," Meador said. "I also want to thank the REYS board and staff for all of their effort to make this next season possible."

Unger brings with him more than 25 years working in child welfare, including 15 years with Bethany Christian Services.

"REYS appealed to me because it's a Christian ministry and because it focused on reaching kids in the Donegal School District," Unger said, noting that his two grown daughters graduated from Donegal High School. "I also felt aligned with the organization's mission, vision and values."

He may have just started in his new role, but Unger hit the ground running. He's focused on a new three-year strategic plan for REYS, including a rebranding of the organization's name, which will be revealed soon.

REYS also created a new mission statement, streamlined to highlight the organization's goal. "Our new mission statement is 'To reach local youth with the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ,'" Unger said.

Now that REYS is fully staffed again, the organization will resume programming five days a week starting Monday, March 11, serving youths in grades one through 12.

Unger, who lives in Elizabethtown with Stefani, his wife of 41 years, enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren, getting outdoors and playing the harmonica. He's excited about the opportunities he sees at REYS.

"REYS is a safe place for kids to come after school, to have fun, play games, learn about God and connect with staff and volunteers who really care about kids," Unger said, noting that students receive a meal during their time at REYS and that all programs and services are provided free of charge. "It's wonderful to have a community center like REYS right here in Mount Joy."

Meador is excited to have Unger on board and to offer more opportunities to serve the wider community.

REYS will host a community worship night on Tuesday, March 19, from 7 to 8 p.m.

"I felt like the Lord put it on my heart to host a worship night at REYS," she said. "I would love to see the churches of Mount Joy be unified and come together. This is an opportunity for pastors and staff to come and not be in charge - just come and worship. The community can come for a night of worship and praying in small groups."

Registration is not required for the worship night, Meador said, and plenty of parking is available behind the building at 105 Fairview St., Mount Joy. For more information on REYS, visit https://reys.org.