In the southwestern part of Manitoba, the prairie landscape is interrupted by the Little Saskatchewan River and the town of Minnedosa, which is nestled in the valley.
An ACOP Church—Valley Life Family Worship Center, pastored by Don Dragan—has long dreamed of building a facility for the children and youth of its community. He firmly believes that “we need something for the young people.”
For 32 years, Don has been involved in the community, proudly wearing his ACOP shirt, letting those around him know that “we’re here to love on ya, we care, we see the need, and we’re willing to help.” A grace and hope story!
Valley Life Family Worship Centre broke ground two years ago on an 8,500-square-foot multi-purpose facility. It’s being designed not just for Sunday Services, but as a place for young people who want to call this their own. Their first focus is the youth drop-in center, where after-school programs will run, and where they’ll have the ability to host sporting and special events. They will also have a commercial kitchen in the new facility that will be used to teach the young people how to cook.
“We’ll have the facility to serve the community, and everything will be free for the young people. We don’t want our young families to pay or keep their kids away because they can’t afford it,” says Pastor Don.
The current church building has had a “good life,” but it does not serve the vision they have for the youth of the community. Valley Life has outgrown the space limitations of a building from 1884, which is showing its age, and has limited accessibility.
Minnedosa is a tight-knit community of 2700 people, and it blooms to 4800 people from the surrounding area who access services and schools within the township.
Pastor Don will walk down the street, and people will put money in his hand, showing their support for the project and what it will mean for the community. He says, “We are praying for the opportunity that is before us, and God amazes me with how He’s making this happen!”
And the congregation at Valley Life Worship Center? They love their pastor and want to work with him, believing in the young people of their community. “God’s word keeps us on track, and we’re so grateful that ACOP supports young people and believes in discipling the next generation.”
As they move forward with this project, they are preparing the raise up a full-time youth pastor who will love the community as much as they do, taking over the responsibility of serving the youth of this vibrant community.
As Minnedosa faces rising concerns over youth disengagement, vandalism, and mental health struggles, Valley Life’s initiative is more than just a construction project – it’s a renewed promise to the next generation. It’s a place where mentorship, belonging, and joy will be offered freely to any young person who walks through the doors.
“I believe this is what we have to offer,” Pastor Dragan said, looking forward. “And if we offer it with love, the rest will follow.”
Donald Berger; Minnedosa Tribune July 18, 2025 p. 7
If you’re interested in this project and would like to help, visit the website at: https://valleylifeworship.ca/.