Pursuing whole-person discipleship using Brazilian
jiu-jitsu to help kids grow physically, emotionally,
and spiritually.
Many kids and teens in Minneapolis face incredible challenges. Even at a young age, many have already endured deeply traumatic experiences, often without the support of positive role models or safe spaces to process their emotions and experiences.
This leaves many students struggling with identity and purpose, while battling feelings of anger, powerlessness, and isolation. Without healthy emotional and physical outlets, youth can be drawn into harmful paths such as drugs and crime.
The Challenge
The good news of Jesus offers the foundation for healing, purpose, and transformation. When caring, Christ-following adults invest in youth through authentic, mentoring relationships, it creates space for lasting change—spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
Through Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Dave aims to create a unique environment where kids can learn discipline, perseverance, and how to deal with failure while also experiencing the love and hope of Christ. Each class can be an opportunity to teach not only technique but also character, identity, and faith.
The Opportunity
The Approach
Whole-person discipleship is at the core of Dave’s ministry. Dave's goal is to use Brazilian jiu-jitsu as a practical and relational tool, helping kids find belonging and hope.
In jiu-jitsu, students fail, learn, and grow – but more importantly, they develop perseverance, courage, and more. These lessons mirror the Christian life and open the door to meaningful conversations about faith, character, and purpose.
The goal is that through consistent mentoring relationships with mature believers, students will find belonging, experience growth, and hear the truth about who God says they are.
Your partnership helps provide Christ-centered mentorship for at-risk youth in Minneapolis. By supporting Dave’s ministry, you are helping create a space where students can experience growth, belonging, and the transformative power of Jesus.
Support Dave’s Ministry
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About Dave Omdal
OUTREACH MINISTER
Dave has over fifteen years of experience in urban youth ministry and is passionate about mobilizing believers to engage in life-on-life mentorship with at-risk youth. His heart is to see students experience the hope and transformation that only Jesus can bring.
He and his wife, Megan, live in the Phillips neighborhood of South Minneapolis with their three children. Together, they are committed to living and serving in the community they love. Their family enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring Minneapolis’ many parks and green spaces together.