Our History

In 2016 Our former parent ministry, Freedom for Youth Ministries - Des Moines, had a vision for planting a Freedom site in each Iowa county that would eventually grow into an independent non-profit. In 2016 a Freedom site was launched in Knoxville, Iowa. Freedom for Youth - Knoxville continued to grow, expand, and add programs and staff. God blessed Freedom for Youth – Knoxville and caused it to steadily grow. The Knoxville site continued to grow through COVID while some other sites permanently closed. Because of this reality, expansion logistics, and the fact that none of the satellite sites, including us, were self-sustaining financially, it became necessary for Freedom for Youth Ministries to reevaluate its statewide vision.

In 2021 the Knoxville site staff received notice that an eventual break-off may be in the future. God began preparing the staff’s hearts for His service. God has never slowed down or altered His vision for His ministry in Knoxville serving Marion County.

By the end of 2023 the Knoxville site had expanded to four weekly school year programs, was making plans for a fifth program, and had created a new Events Coordinator staff position. However, that year ended with them learning that Freedom for Youth Ministries - Des Moines was officially beginning the shift of their mission focus from a statewide ministry to an inner-city Des Moines ministry. The Knoxville staff needed to decide how they were going to respond. They knew God called them to His ministry. God has been faithful and generous. They knew God didn’t want them to walk away from approximately 100 students they were serving. God directed them to start preparing to break off into an independent 501(c)3. This too God molded their hearts for.

The Knoxville site immediately started communicating to the community the need and desire to prepare to break off into an independent 501(c)3. In late December 2023, Phase 1 of creating First Place Ministries was launched, building a foundation of financial donors.

Details began for Phase 2, the official paperwork and transitions. In the meantime, the mission to serve the students of Marion County, sharing the love of Jesus and coaching them in faith, education, employment, and leadership skills remained alive and active.

Ten years in the making! First Place Ministries was officially founded on July 22, 2026!

God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is our ultimate provider, director, and sustainer. God’s love motivates us to action. We want to ensure every student knows they are seen, they are loved, and they are never alone. God is our guide and director sending us to the correct advisors and teaching us what we do not know. First Place Ministries will assume complete ownership of the Freedom for Youth Ministries, Knoxville site as of October 1, 2026. God is ever worthy to be praised!

We give God all the glory for revealing His plan to give hope and empower youth and calling Christians from all walks of life to join Him in His plan. Praise be to God Almighty and His son Jesus Christ for the grace, mercy, and blessings given through the Holy Spirit upon First Place Ministries.