Yunosuke… Kindhearted in North Carolina!

High in the mountains of North Carolina at Teen Valley Ranch, I met a young man named Yunosuke (pronounced You-nes-Kay). His name has Japanese roots from his mother’s side of the family, while his father grew up right there in North Carolina. The meaning of his name is “kindhearted, caring, and compassionate,” and it fits him perfectly. He is the kind of person who makes others feel welcomed and encouraged just by being around him. Because his name is difficult to pronounce, everyone at camp affectionately calls him “You Know”!

Yunosuke works full-time on staff at Teen Valley Ranch, a Christian camp where people come to learn, play, and grow in their faith. His job is never the same from one day to the next. Sometimes he’s scrubbing cabins to make them ready for campers. Other days he’s helping in the kitchen, counseling kids, working on landscaping, or even pitching in on construction projects. No matter what needs to be done, Yunosuke is ready and willing to serve. His cheerful attitude and steady work ethic make him a valuable part of the TVR family.

When he isn’t busy with camp responsibilities, Yunosuke enjoys the outdoors. Hiking through the mountains, kayaking down rivers, and simply soaking in the beauty of God’s creation bring him joy and peace. The natural world is where he feels closest to God, and it fuels his desire to share that same joy with the people he serves at camp.

Even though he isn’t sure exactly what his future holds, Yunosuke knows one thing for sure—he wants to encourage and love people wherever God leads him. At some point, he hopes to go to college to study pastoral ministry or another area of church work. For now, though, he’s grateful for this season at Teen Valley Ranch, where he is growing in faith, gaining experience, and touching lives with his kindness.

Yunosuke (You-nes-Kay) is a fine example of what it means to live with a servant’s heart. Whether it’s cleaning up after a weekend retreat, fixing a broken fence, or simply offering a smile, he reflects the meaning of his name. His life shows that true greatness isn’t found in being the most important person, but in caring for others.