Joel Helling grew up in and was confirmed at Northfield UMC as a youth before studying at Luther, Normandale and the University of Minnesota. He has been a youth counselor in charter schools, at nonprofits like The Bridge for Runaway Youth and the Boys and Girls Club, and he's coached high school football and track. He looks forward to working with adult volunteers to expand the congregation's youth programming and helping youth and adults walk together on their journey of faith.