Hunter Young – We Will Miss You

Hunter Young was a World Racer who took his life a couple of weeks ago. Those of us who knew him are still trying to sort it out. It was a shock. It leaves me deeply sad. We are left with this paradox: Hunter was loved by so many, but at the end of his life, he felt lonely and unseen.

How do we make sense of this? I don’t have the words. But I’ll share the words of others:

Hunter

Hunter posted a note on Facebook on Oct. 31, the final in a series of posts about his life:

If you’re reading this it means that I have took my own life. Pretty dramatic of me I know. But I didn’t want to disappear into the night without something to be said. I also hate that I’m doing this at this time.

I just wrote out my life for all to see and witness. Everyone was showering me with love and thanking me for being honest and brave. That’s not why I did this. I wrote for me. I wanted to be sure that I made the right decision. And I know I have.

After all of these years and all of the people I met, I am still so incredibly alone and I know that I am no longer needed. I continue to push people away. I continue to be mean to others. I lie when I fail. I’m sorry for not telling anyone this or even providing a hint. If you know me, you know just how closed I can be.

Evan

Evan Dias knew Hunter well and posted this to Facebook:

The World Race team he led in 2017

Hunter went on the World Race and subsequently led a team. 

Here is what he said about them:

A year ago, the Lord asked me to be a squad leader. I never wanted to do this world race again. But I went forward – with pessimism + acknowledging that it would be an awful time. And then I met these 43 beauties and I couldn’t harbor anymore doubts that I truly needed these people. They were to be my family. Now here they are, finishing up their last travel day on their way to America after being gone for 11 months.

His team loved him and wrote the following about him (see link here).

“When I first met Hunter, I remember thinking that he was someone that I had a lot to learn from. He is someone who is unapologetically himself and walks with confidence in who God has made him to be. Hunter’s authenticity has been a catalyst for the squad to boldly embrace who they are in Christ.“ – Anna Ganter (co-squad leader)

“Oh Hunter, there are not enough words to describe him. One word to describe him, however, is passionate. He is passionate for the Lord and passionate about sharing what the Lord has done in his life. He is passionate about people and he loves everyone that comes in contact with him. I have had the pleasure of having him as one of my co-squad leaders these last 4 months and it has been such a blessing. He loves me well and he loves the squad well. If you haven’t noticed by my words, he is REALLY good at making people feel known and loved. It has been refreshing to lead with someone who puts so much into ministry. He is a great example to everyone on our squad and he leads with authenticity. He is always in my corner and I can always count on him. I want to thank everyone who has supported him thus far on his journey because I honestly don’t think I would have made it this far in Squad Leading so sane without him.“ – Hannah Henderson (co-squad leader)

“When i think of Hunter and what he means to me, the thing i think of first and foremost is Encourager. This man has been such an encourager throughout these first couple of months of this trip, not just with me but with the whole squad. He loves people will all his heart and truly cares about there well being. He’s extremely attentive to peoples moods and feelings and is always the first person to ask how you are or if there is anything he can be doing to help you, or love you better. He’s also challenged me this year. We are not the most likely of friends on paper just because of our very distinct differences, but despite that he never stopped aggressively pursuing a friendship with me. He brings a perspective into my life that I’ve never had before, and has really encouraged me to open up in vulnerability. He has also helped me to break down some major walls in my life. For that i am beyond thankful, and can say my trip wouldn’t be the same with out. Now we haven’t always gotten along about everything, we have definitely had our disagreements about things. But despite any argument or disagreement, he’s always quick to hear what I have to say and to understand my heart, or just where I’m coming from. He’s always quick to make amends if he feels he’s in the wrong, or openly accept my apology graciously if I am. This man has really challenged me to grow, and really shown me what it looks like to have a friend that loves you unconditionally. So just know if you’re reading this, that he has had a huge impact on me and this squad! I’d hate to see it end for financial reasons, because his work here is most definitely not done. I hope that you read this and the many other great letters i know people are writing about him, and just find it in your heart to help him continue his journey. Allow him to keep impacting the squad and continuing on this great calling that God has for him!“ – Keaton Curtis

“Hunter is someone who shows us what it looks like to be comfortable in his own skin. He is authenticity himself. It’s really encouraging to see him strive to walk into Freedom with the Lord. AIM challenges us to reevaluate our identity and Hunter personifies what that looks like. He challenges his self awareness and learns new ways to grow in that area, not in his own eyes but in the eyes of the Lord. I am thankful that through his journey he has learned to seek the Lord in all things. I am grateful that he incorporates his intimacy with the Lord into how he leads this squad. I pray that our squad will help form and mold him into his true identity in the Lord and that we continue to receive the fruits of his Christ centered leadership.“ – Julia “McGoolia”

“From the moment I met Hunter at training camp, I felt encouraged, loved, and understood. From the day we launched, I felt so supported by him through the ways he reached out to me and prayed for me. And from day one on the field, I’ve felt nothing but safe when Hunter is around. He breeds the kind of vulnerability in people that most need but don’t naturally have, and he expresses genuine joy in his friendships with every person he befriends. He listens well, he knows how to pour into those who are hurting, and he goes above and beyond what is asked of him constantly so that we Racers can get through the rigors of this challenging year. He is one that challenges me to freely accept who I am and to walk in my Kingdom identity always. My Race would not be nearly as successful, joy filled, or freeing if it were not for Hunter Young.” – Jonathan Hogue

“Hunter is my brother. I love him to death and appreciate the ways he wants to pour into the people around him within this squad of missionaries. He needs to be here until the end of his time with AIM because I know that he’s not done pouring into the squad the ways that he needs to. God’s used him up until now to lead and God’s not finished with him here. I want Hunter’s desire and vision, to pursue this squad well, to fully happen and glorify God when his time is done. His role here is one that God is using powerfully to shape and mold this squad. I pray that he will be able to step back and see how this squad has challenged him and loved him well AND that he will see how God has sovereignly worked through him to bless these brothers and sisters in Christ.“ – Daniel Ingalls

“Hunter has so much love to give to his squad. You can feel the love of the Lord through Hunter. With this love he has such a desire to get to know people fully and invest time in everyone. Hunter has a contagious laugh that lights up a room and brings joy to everyone around him. He is also so in tune with what the Lord is speaking to him. With his discernment he is able to speak truth over the squad and bring life to each and every one of us. I thank hunter for all that he has and still is teaching me. Thank you all for supporting Hunter and all that he is doing for us on this incredible journey for the Lord.” – Lydia Flowers

“Hunter not only has a spirit on fire for God but also to help us grow closer in our relationships with the Lord. He is so great at speaking truths into us, building us up and encouraging us all while making us laugh at the same time. His laugh is contagious and he’s constantly bringing light to any situation.“ – Anna Beth Lowrey

“Hunter, has been a wonderful leader to O Squad. The joy and laughter that radiates through Hunter has brightened all of our days at one point since being on the race. His love for the Lord and incredible ability to hear the Father has been an encouragement and a blessing to all of us.“ – Anonymous

“Hunter is one of the funniest and most joyful people I know. He makes a point of intentionally connecting with people, making them feel seen, heard, and appreciated. He challenged me to aggressively pursue friendships and relationships that I desire. He has shown me the importance of self-awareness, but not letting personality tests put me in a box. Hunter has been an example of how a leader can lead well while also coming along side those he leads. He has a spirit of fun, however he has no problem being serious when it’s necessary. He leads from a place of vulnerability and openness. His presence on this trip is so valuable to everyone he meets, both on the squad and in every country we visit.“ – Sarah Weatherford

“Hunter is someone I deeply admire as a leader and a friend. He is an active listener, and the way he listens makes people feel validated, seen, and heard. Wisdom from the Lord overflows out of Hunter, and he is not shy to share with us what the Lord has been stirring on his heart. Hunter sees potential in everyone around them– not only seeing people for who Christ created them to be, but by celebrating them for who they are and who they are becoming. Hunter challenges people to go deeper in their relationship with the Lord, and he is really good about calling people to use their giftings for the Kingdom. He empowers each person he pours into, and he actively helps people see the leadership qualities within themselves. Our squad would not be who we are without the intentionality from Hunter. DONATE TO HIM BECAUSE HE’S THE BEST! Your donation is an investment in the Kingdom– and Hunter is doing an incredible job at bringing the Kingdom here and now!“ – Kelsey Nerland

“Hunter leads our squad well! He pushes us to become more self-aware of what it is we need on this Race to keep going, and what it is the Lord is seeking to do in us. He encourages us to seek community with each other and to pursue friendships with intention – and he leads us in that by doing the very same things himself. Hunter has always been quick to place a comforting hand on your shoulder and ask how you’re really doing. I know I can be goofy with Hunter or bring the serious stuff to him, too. It’s clear to see why the Lord brought him to lead our squad – he brings wisdom, humor, fun, and challenges us to go deeper with the Lord and each other!“ – Victoria Bolduc

“Hunter is someone who embodies what the Bible talks about in reference to community. He loves deeply, seeks the Father relentlessly, is real, vulnerable, bold, and gifted in bringing our whole squad right along with him! Hunter is one of the few people I know who fully understands what it means to live in authentic, real, and Christ-like community. He is also a fighter for others and he doesn’t give up on his people, regardless of what they are going through or need. I have loved watching Hunter bring his prophetic gifts into our Squad and I’m so excited for opportunities to learn more from him in the months to come.“ – Erin Wilber

“Hunter is a great squad leader/alumni racer. He has been a blessing to our whole squad. He enjoys sharing the Love of Jesus with us and the people we meet in each country. When we have questions about life or general race questions, he is always open and willing to share his heart with us. Hunter is also a joy to be around. He loves to joke and laugh but also understands when it’s time to be serious. It is so nice to have an experienced person for the first half of our trip to share incites and show us the ropes.“ – Michael Rojewski

“It has been an honor to have Hunter as our O squad leader. He has shown me what it looks like to pursue more of Jesus every single day. He leads us into deeper relationship with our Creator and serves the squad with humility. I have seen him grow in his confidence and boldness the past 4 months and I am excited to see him continue to become the man God created him to be. He has been a great support system to the team leaders and always is open to talk. Thank you for supporting hunter throughout this journey and I am asking you continue to do so.“ – Ellen Wilson

“When I first met Hunter, I thought he was really fun and full of life. He made a lot of jokes, and his humor made me laugh. Instantly, I knew he would add a fun vibe to any atmosphere. Although all of that is true, I have learned there is so much more to him. Hunter seeks the Lord in all he does, & is fearless in speaking life into other people. He is a natural leader and has the rare gift of influence. Others instinctively follow Hunter’s lead because of this influence God has blessed him with. My journey on the World Race is better because of the words Hunter has spoken over me, the encouragement he has given, the wisdom he has shared, and the walk he has modeled. He has been vulnerable enough to share how God has and continues to work in his life, and has given me a confidence to share the same. I’m thankful for his joy and silliness, but I’m also grateful for the deep connection that he is intentional in making with every single person on our squad.“ – Katie Sadowski

“Hunter is truly a one of a kind, loving, caring and genuine friend. I really can’t put into words how much he means to me and how much he has impacted my life. He’s pushed me deeper and has always been an encouragement to me. I’ll never forget the role he has played in my spiritual journey when he prayed freedom over me over something that I had been struggling with for a very long time. That was the first time I actually asked for prayer for that struggle and Hunter was the one I asked prayer for it from. When he prayed freedom of the struggle over my life, I felt this huge weight lifted off of my shoulders and in that I truly believe I experienced freedom from that.“ – Andrew Trausch

“Getting to spend the last few months with Hunter has been amazing. He is someone who deeply cares about the people on our squad and goes out of his way to affectionately share that. I love the way Hunter has sought to be humble and honest before all of us; sharing where he is growing and being open so we can learn from what he is going through. Hunters love for the Holy Spirit inspires me and the way he listens to the Lord words to share with others.“ – Cherish Kibler

“Hunter is the type of influential leader that this world needs more of. He was the first person at training camp to speak into my life. He had no idea who I was and had the boldness to speak into my life and it will forever make an impact on my life. The words that he spoke to me were words that directly applied to my family and life. He has the type of selflessness and boldness that makes a difference to not only me but, the people he encounters on a day to day basis. He pours his whole heart into this squad and the people that we encounter; with prophesies encouragement, and spiritual guidance.“ – Rebecca Denney

“I am so thankful to have Hunter as one of our squad leaders! His vulnerability, joy and wisdom has touched my heart. He brings laughter where ever he goes, and his courage to be who God wants him to be inspires me to do the same. He is quick to encourage and share his own experiences. On the race, I’ve seen him open up about his past with awesome transparency and challenge others to do the same. Please support him on this awesome journey God has him on!“ – Carissa Matters

“The first thing I noticed about Hunter was the light he carried within him. Showing up to training camp was terrifying and I felt very weird, but he radiates so much love for the Lord that it made me feel at ease. It is easy to see the Holy Spirit working through him by the way he cares about every single one of us. I don’t know if he knows it but he has impacted not only my race but my life in crazy ways and I feel truly blessed to have him as a squad leader.“ – Nayelly Rodriguez

“Have you ever just needed a big brother to love you but also call out the best in you even when it’s hard?! That’s exactly what Hunter does. Not just for me but also for our whole squad of 43! He takes time to know each one of us so intentionally. Personally for me, his love has helped me push forward, and through that I’ve experienced God in such a tangible way. His trust in the Lord and his joy has been such a solid foundation for our squad. Over these last few months I’ve seen him grow into his leadership roles as well as grow in His personal relationship with the Lord. He has stepped out in new gifts through the Spirit and his bravery has helped us step out in new ways as well! I’m so thankful for his support and so thankful he’s had the opportunity to pour into each of our lives!“ – Becca Oakley

“The World Race wouldn’t be the same without Hunter. He has brought so much laughter, joy, wisdom, and discernment to our squad that has spread into our teams. No matter how challenging the Race can be, Hunter does all things joyfully, radiating the love of Christ. Hunter has been a role model on what it looks like to allow God to refine and utilize our spiritual gifts. Not only is he a natural born leader, he is an extremely humble one. He has sacrificed so much to be here with our teams, laughing and serving with us during joyful times, and encouraging and walking with us through difficult ones. Thank you to everyone who has supported him in this mission. He not only has made huge strides in bringing Kingdom to earth, but he has impacted the lives of everyone on the squad. He has taught me how to love, fight for justice, and above all keep Christ at the center in all that I do.“ – Christen Brown

“Hunter has been a huge impact and blessing on my world race journey. I remember not even knowing him at training camp, but saw how faithful he was praying over people. I noticed how others were drawn to his contagious joy, but even in moments where he was serious, people felt safe. Hunter is not just a squad leader, he is a friend. He calls me to higher places, even when I don’t believe in myself. I remember at our last debrief, we were sitting with our feet in the pool, and he just began to declare truth’s over my life that I had been refusing to believe. He wanted me to know how not only he saw me, but how God saw me. The Wolfpack wouldn’t be the same without him!“ – Caitlyn Duffy

“Hunter is nice.“ – Carson Stutzman

“Hunter spent the better part of the first month with my team in Costa Rica. Looking back, I honestly don’t know what we would have done without his lighthearted spirit helping relieve all the feelings of tension…anxiety…uncertainty that we all felt at times as we adjusted to being on the race. Hunter definitely has a way of diffusing those kinds of situations with his insight, wisdom and his contagious laugh that you can hear a mile away. I have appreciated Hunter so much on the race. I couldn’t imagine him leaving our team in month one and I also can’t imagine him leaving our Squad after month 5. He is definitely a part of every team he has invested in and we wouldn’t be where we are without him!“ – Heather King

“Hunter has an amazingly unique set of gifts that allows him to effortlessly navigate what is to the rest of us the complicated line between a leader and a friend. He has without a doubt been the leader this squad needed but more importantly to me, he’s been the friend I needed at the lowest points on my Race. He knows when to listen and when to push people out of their ruts. He gives hard feedback while remaining encouraging. His presence brings lift and happiness seems to follow him everywhere he goes. I’ve felt no judgment from him, only the Father’s unconditional love that flows through him into everyone he encounters as evidence of his intimate relationship with and submission to our Lord and Savior. I’m a far better man for having known him and for the countless hours he has poured into me personally as I grow in my faith. I don’t follow people willingly, but I follow this man because I know he follows Jesus. Quite simply, I would not have grown as much as I have nor do I think I’d still be on this trip if it wasn’t for him.“ – Daniel White

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If you knew and loved Hunter, I hope that you got a chance to see what his team saw in him. What a gift he was! Our hearts are broken. Please pray for his family and friends. And if there is someone you love who you haven’t spoken to in a while, consider reaching out to them. We all need to know we’re not alone at a time when loneliness is epidemic.