Warrior Wednesday: Empowering the Next Generation

When you hear the word “Warriors,” you think of strength, unity, resilience, and leadership. Ashley Collins and Ashley Crawley came up with an idea to create safe spaces for students to learn about Jesus and it has grown into a movement impacting dozens of young lives every week.

In January 2024, Ashley Collins brought those very qualities to life by launching Warrior Wednesday, a before-school gathering for 6th and 7th grade boys at Kearney Middle School. What started as a simple idea—

Warrior Wednesday meets at 6:50 am and kicks off with breakfast snacks like donuts or other items generously donated by community members. Each week, guest speakers, such as the chaplain for the Kansas City Chiefs, local leaders, military veterans and former athletes share encouraging, Bible-based messages that speak to the hearts of young men navigating life, school, and faith.

After witnessing the impact, Ashley Crawley was inspired to start a girls’ version of the group, offering the same faith-filled community for middle school girls. Together, these groups have not only challenged students but also encouraged them in their physical and spiritual journeys.

“If there's one message these programs strive to share, it’s this: God loves us all and will meet us right where we are,” said Crawley.

These groups also equip students to share the Gospel by providing items like bracelets, necklaces, bookmarks, and small tokens of faith—all made possible through donations and volunteers. On any given Wednesday, between 50 and 70 students gather in fellowship, meeting behind the school or indoors at the New Sparks Building during inclement weather.

As this year’s 7th graders looked ahead to junior high, many expressed disappointment that Warrior Wednesday wouldn’t continue. In response, the leaders are expanding the program with Tribal Tuesdays, launching in the fall for junior high students. These gatherings will also meet at 6:50 am, near the tennis courts, ensuring the mission continues to grow alongside the students.

The passion doesn’t stop there. Wanting to extend the connection beyond the school week, Ashley Crawley partnered with Radiant Life Church in Kearney, MO, to create Warrior Weekends—a monthly evening event open to all 6th–9th graders, regardless of school district. Held from 7–9 pm at Radiant Life, each gathering features fun activities, food, community, and a faith-filled message designed just for teens.

Event dates can be found on the Radiant Life Church website (www.radiantlifeag.org), on Facebook (Radiant Life Church), or by calling the church directly  at 816-628-4169.

KPGZ News – Submitted by Ashley Crawley