Convos was officially founded in November 2012, but the vision for it began years earlier. David and Deborah Dueck, longtime residents of Lincoln, saw a growing need among local youth. Many teens in the community had little to no access to extra-curricular activities or safe spaces to spend time with friends. The reasons differed, but the outcome was often the same: young people wandering around town with nothing constructive to do, becoming vulnerable to harmful environments, substance use, and destructive behaviours.

God placed a clear calling on David and Deborah’s hearts — to create a drop-in youth centre where teens would feel safe, respected, and genuinely loved, and where Christian values, encouragement, and hope could be shared through committed volunteers.

Recognizing that this vision needed sustainable support, the Duecks opened a café/restaurant that would eventually help fund the youth centre as its primary sponsor. The café quickly became another blessing in the community — a place where people gathered for meaningful conversations, small groups, Bible studies, and celebrations of all kinds.

Over the years, Convos has continued to grow. The organization achieved charitable status, expanded its volunteer and staff teams, strengthened its policies and procedures, and built lasting partnerships with local churches. The youth program has also developed into a structured, dynamic, and impactful space that many teens now rely on.

And we believe this is only the beginning.

While the first decade has been marked by God’s goodness and steady growth, the potential for the next five years is even greater. There are still countless young people in Lincoln who need a safe place to belong and a chance to encounter hope, purpose, and encouragement. Convos Youth Zone remains one of the most effective ways to reach them — and we are committed to carrying this mission forward with faith, excellence, and love.