EVERY STUDENT | EVERY CAMPUS | EVERY COMMUNITY
Meet the team
Richard Baker
Minnesota Youth Alive Director
Richard began his ministry at Christ Church on Lake Street in Minneapolis, MN, leading a youth group of 15 students. Recognizing the need to reach beyond the church walls, he pursued creative, Spirit-led outreach that grew the ministry to over 80 neighborhood students. This passion led him to Youth for Christ USA and ultimately to become the first Youth Alive missionary in the Minnesota District of the Assemblies of God. Today, more than 27,000 students have responded to the Gospel through MN Youth Alive, and Richard remains committed to reaching every student with the hope of Jesus Christ before graduation.
Kyle Curran
Church Engagement
Kyle is passionate about helping churches and leaders build meaningful bridges into their communities so students can discover the purpose and plans God has prepared for them. With over 17 years of experience in youth ministry, Kyle currently serves as a mentor for leaders in community and church engagement. Growing up as a pastor’s kid, his heart was shaped early for those who feel overlooked or hopeless. Today, Kyle is committed to reversing the rising percentages of mental-health struggles among young people by equipping churches, schools, and leaders to offer hope, belonging, and life-changing support. He is a father to three boys, and husband to his wife, Sara.
Levi Spangrud
Student Engagement
After 10 years of serving as a youth pastor, Levi joined Youth Alive with a passion for reaching students and making disciples. He believes there is something extraordinary about the next generation and has a particular heart for reaching students who may not yet know the hope and purpose found in Jesus. He is passionate about raising up and equipping students and youth pastors, championing them to reach their communities and make a lasting impact. He loves building genuine relationships, developing leaders, and equipping the next generation to live out their faith and fulfill the Great Commission.
Kelli Patrick
Student Engagement
After 8 years of being a Youth Pastor in Minnesota, Kelli joined our team. In her own words, “I have always loved when students recognize that their calling is not a destination but a journey. My role in Youth Alive Student Engagement is to help Ignite a passion in students, Identify how they can use their passions, and Inspire them to run after a God sized dream. I do this by speaking on Wednesday nights, meeting with students and helping create a community so students can feel connected and equipped.” Kelli and her family are located in Central Minnesota.




