Zondervan has acquired Youth Specialties, a youth ministry organization that provides publications, resources, training and encouragement for youth workers and youth-oriented organizations around the world. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The acquisition marks the culmination of a 30-year business relationship, including a co-publishing and distribution partnership, between the two companies. To date, the Youth Specialties/Zondervan partnership has published more than 500 resources for youth workers.

Each year, Youth Specialties conducts conventions, training seminars and youth worker retreats for more than 100,000 volunteer and career youth workers. The company also produces books, CD-ROMs, videos, the magazine The Journal of Student Ministries and online resources. Youth Specialties also has a Spanish-language division, Especialidades Juveniles.

“Youth Specialties has consistently proven itself as an innovator and trusted resource committed to meeting the unique needs of youth ministries,” said Doug Lockhart, president and CEO of Zondervan. “This acquisition is a natural fit as Zondervan continues to look for ways to expand our impact.”

The Youth Specialties staff of 35 will be retained, and will remain based in San Diego. President Mark Oestreicher also will remain in his current role providing leadership and overseeing the daily operations of the company.

“Our team is excited to work even more closely with everyone at Zondervan as we strive to continue Youth Specialties' tradition of service to youth workers,” Oestreicher said.

Former owner Karla Yaconelli, widow of Youth Specialties founder Mike Yaconelli-who died in October 2003-will continue to maintain an active role within the company, Zondervan said in a statement.

“This partnership will enhance who Youth Specialties is and what we do,” Karla Yaconelli said. “Our focus will remain the same-equipping youth workers-yet teaming with Zondervan provides us with both long-term stability and additional resources to increase our reach and offerings and continue to try new and innovative things.”

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