History of New Horizons Youth Ministry-1971

In 1971, Gordon Blossom founded New Horizons Youth Ministries in response to the rapid deterioration in many of our nation’s youth. Although much was being done for teens with legal problems, there were virtually no other placement options available for the parents anguishing over their underachieving teenagers who were unmotivated academically, making poor choices and at risk for dysfunctional behaviors. The history of New Horizons has been one of significant growth resulting from the institution’s dedicated staff and unrelenting efforts to enhance their effectiveness. The persistent increase in demand for training has led to continuous improvement of curriculum, therapy and expansion of facilities on all three campuses.

Escuela Caribe-1972

The first school began by taking troubled youth to a Haitian mission field to do service projects for poor people. In 1972, the ministry was moved to the Dominican Republic. It was there that a foundation of spiritual impact, Christian character training and intensive academics was built— this foundation still sustains today’s thriving boarding school.

Missanabie Woods (Survival) Academy-1976

Through the vision and generosity of Hugh and Nancy McClellan, Missanabie Woods Academy was started in the unspoiled beauty of Northern Ontario in 1976. Located on about 580 acres on Dog Lake is a substantial campus for our multi-faceted summer school, which accommodate up to 100 people.

New Horizons Youth Academy-1983

On December 9, 1982, the Roosevelt Elementary (located three miles southeast of Marion, Indiana on 120 acres) was purchased to be used as a headquarters facility and a boarding school. It opened its doors to the public September 1, 1983. Over the next few years, four student homes and three staff homes were added to the campus. In addition, in honor of the founder, the Gordon Blossom School Building was opened in 1999.