Dan Istvanik, Founder and Owner of Youth Ministry Hub
My coaching and mentorship approach is distinct. It is shaped by nearly 30 years in youth and family ministry and a commitment to supporting youth workers in their spiritual, physical, and mental well-being, professional excellence, and personal lives.
I studied Education at Mt. Vernon Nazarene University, biblical studies and Counseling Psychology at Clark Summit University, and Davis College. My choice of education and study has given me a unique perspective and strategy in the ministries I have served. This is especially true in my approach to coaching.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving diverse churches across the country, including those in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C. Currently, I work as a family pastor and production director with the Global Leadership Summit: Next Gen team in the Chicagoland area.
My experience spans a variety of contexts, from underprivileged rural areas to urban settings, military communities, and affluent suburbs. This broad exposure has enriched my understanding of the challenges students, families, and ministry leaders face.
Several years ago, while connecting with fellow youth pastors and leaders, I noticed a significant gap in resources specifically tailored to the middle school years (5th–9th grade) and a lack of support for the growing movement towards family and parent-engaged ministry. Additionally, there were limited, affordable resources available for training youth workers beyond major events and publications. Over the past decade, I have dedicated myself to creating resources, building networks, mentoring/coaching others, and speaking to address these needs.
Youth Ministry Hub Coaching represents my ongoing commitment to empowering local youth workers, enhancing their ministries, and supporting their families and callings.
I HAVE WRITTEN FOR AND PARTNERED WITH PLACES LIKE:
- Leadership Resouces: Global Leadership Summit: Next-Gen
- Youth Ministry Resources: LeaderTreks, Download Youth Ministry, Orange: XP3, Youth Specialties
- Parent & Family Resources: Ministry to Parents, The Source of Parents, D6, INCMN
- Publications: Youth Worker Journal, Group Magazine
I HAVE SPOKEN AT:
- Youth Ministry Training Events Like KidzMatters Conference, Youth Specialties: National Youth Worker Convention, Next to Ministry Conferences, Vision of Youth: National Youth Workers, Beyond Kids Ministry Conference: Australia
- Student Events Like Retreats/Conferences: Chapelstreet Church, Black Rock Retreat Center, Brethren in Christ Northeast, Carlisle EFC Students
- Summer Camp Weeks: Camp Patmos, River Valley Ranch, Mill Creek Church Students
Youth Ministry Hub Coaching continues my passion for uplifting local youth workers and their ministries, families, and callings.
Coaching Format
My coaching is personal and tailored to each individual, team, or church, recognizing that no one-size-fits-all solution exists. I limit the number of clients I take on each season to maintain a healthy balance between my personal well-being, family, and ministry.
After an initial request, I offer a complimentary 20-30-minute consultation call to discuss your specific circumstances and needs.
Coaching Options:
- Individual Coaching: One-on-one mentorship.
- Youth Ministry Team Coaching: Involves key youth ministry leaders and their teams (paid or volunteer).
- Church Team Coaching: Works with staff teams or the entire church staff.
- Supervisor/Team Member Coaching: A two-on-one relationship for coaching, advising, or mediating.
Coaching Experiences:
- Single Session: 60-90 minutes (Zoom, call, or in-person). Includes individual and situational assessment, verbal evaluation, and a written resolution plan.
- 3-Month Package: Three 60-90 minute meetings (once a month), with weekly 30-minute check-ins and prayer calls. Text and email support are available throughout. Includes assessments, evaluations, assigned tasks, and a written strategy and vision at the conclusion.
- 6-Month Package: Six 60-90 minute meetings (once a month), with similar weekly check-ins and support as the 3-month package, plus an optional meeting with a supervisor/team. Includes assessments, evaluations, assigned tasks, and a progress report at the conclusion.
Optional In-Person Visit: Depending on availability, 1-3 days of in-person coaching, with travel and expenses to be negotiated.
If you’re interested in coaching that empowers you or your team, please contact me. I look forward to partnering with you on this journey.