Kaylee Dangc will be joining our staff as the new Youth Ministry Director in June. Get to know a little about her.

Q: Tell us a little about where you grew up and where you're moving from.

I was raised in Redding, California, but for the past four years, I’ve been soaking up the coastal vibes of Santa Barbara while pursuing my studies in English and Ethnic Studies.

Q: What are one or two things you’d like folks to know about your family or community of origin, your school background, or your interests & passions?

My family’s journey is rooted in resilience and hope. My parents immigrated from Thailand in their teens, seeking asylum from the Vietnam War. They transitioned from Portland, Oregon, to Seattle, Washington, and finally to Redding, California. I’ve only known Redding as my childhood home, since I was the seventh child—and the last and only one to be born there. We’re Iu-Mien, an ethnic group with rich traditions and history that’s often mistaken for Hmong. While both are sub-groups under the umbrella ethnicity of Yao, each has its own distinct culture and stories. Growing up with this heritage shaped how I viewed the world, understood the complexities of identity, and appreciated the importance of belonging in a place that may not fully understand you.

Q: How did you find your way into student ministry? What’s one or two things you love about working with young people?

I discovered my passion for youth ministry in high school as a youth leader—planning activities, leading worship, and creating space for middle school girls to explore their faith. What I love most is how young people’s curiosity and playful energy keep my own faith vibrant.

Young people today are navigating identity while balancing multiple, often conflicting worlds, which resonates deeply with my own experience—trying to belong, bridging cultures, and staying true to myself. It’s a gift to walk with them as they grow into that journey.

Q: What drew you to City Church?

I was first led to City Church SF by a few mentors who knew my strengths and passions and pointed me directly to its doors. At the time, I was longing for a space where I could live out my faith in a community that embraced love and curiosity while holding the real tensions of the sorrow and chaos in our world. I came to City Church deeply wounded—by the church, by my own education at Westmont, and by so many experiences that left me feeling disillusioned. But in many ways, City Church has played an integral part in my healing journey. Our church and students remind me how we can collectively build the (Kin)  of God, and create communities of renewal and grace together. 

Q: What’s interesting or exciting to you about doing youth ministry in an urban setting?

What excites me about doing youth ministry in an urban setting is the beautiful diversity of experiences, perspectives, and stories that young people bring. Urban spaces are vibrant and dynamic, and they challenge students to engage with the complexities of the world around them. I love walking alongside them as they navigate these realities, helping them explore how faith intersects with justice, culture, and community. There’s something powerful about creating a space where they can wrestle with big questions while still holding onto wonder, hope, and joy.

Q: What’s something you’re looking forward to about being in San Francisco? 

Honestly, I’m pretty excited about the food! I mean, where else can I grab dim sum for lunch, then stumble upon a killer burrito spot for dinner? But beyond the obviously amazing food, I’m looking forward to getting lost in the city’s variety of neighborhoods, people-watching at Golden Gate Park, and maybe—just maybe—finally figuring out how to walk the hills without feeling like I’ve run a marathon. Maybe I’ll just run one instead. 

Q: What would you say to someone who’s interested in connecting with youth ministry, but isn’t sure they can relate to teenagers?

A secret between you and me: you’re probably pretty cool to them. Teenagers have a deep desire for authenticity and can sense it a mile away because they are genuinely interested and curious about their world and yours. You don’t have to be their age or even share all their interests or know the latest slang term to have an impact. What they really value is someone who listens, respects them, and is willing to show up in their lives right where they are. 

Q: Is there anything you’d like the congregation of City Church to know or celebrate about you?

I’d love our congregation to know that over the past four years, I’ve been deeply immersed in finishing my B.A. in English and Ethnic Studies. These studies have opened my eyes to the power of storytelling, and I am currently in the process of writing my mother’s immigration story with the hope of doing the same for my father. It’s been a transformative journey, both academically and personally, and I’m grateful to be part of a community that celebrates the richness of diverse stories and the healing power they hold. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and sharing this journey with all of you.