About Legacy

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Legacy Bible Institute is the fulfillment of a vision decades in the making. In 1979, at the very beginning of their marriage, Richard and Margie Jankov dreamed of one day starting a Bible school—an idea rooted in their passion for discipleship, biblical training, and mentorship. Over the years, God continued to deepen their conviction that young people needed serious spiritual formation, strong mentorship, and a biblical worldview to navigate life faithfully.

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In 1997, following God’s call, Richard and Margie left their careers and extended family in Phoenix, Arizona, to establish Upward Bound Youth (UBY) in Wooster, Ohio, as well as a church plant through the Apostolic . UBY was founded as a nonprofit ministry dedicated to mentoring young Christians, equipping them for life and ministry, and serving both the church and the local community through faith-based programs.

Richard’s role in the local church further expanded UBY's ministry to young people. Each summer, Richard and Margie chaperoned a youth choir tour, an experience that became more than just music—it was two weeks of intensive discipleship and immersive Christian community. Year after year, choir members returned home longing for more.

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In 2011, during one such choir tour, the long-held vision for a Bible school was shared. A handful of young adults, eager to pursue deeper biblical training, responded with bold faith: “Why not now?” With less than two months to develop a curriculum, but with God’s help and a lifetime of preparation, Legacy Bible Institute was officially launched by Upward Bound Youth in partnership with the Apostolic Christian Church Foundation.

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Since then, Legacy Bible Institute has offered a full-time, one-year immersive study of the entire Bible, equipping students to deepen their spiritual roots before stepping into their future vocations and callings. Many graduates have gone on to pursue ministry, theological education, and service in the church. Over the years, over 80 students have participated in the program, each setting aside this formative season to be immersed in God’s Word. It is our hope and prayer that every graduate leaves equipped to live a Gospel-centered life, faithfully serving Christ in whatever path He calls them to.

Our Vision:

At Legacy Bible Institute, we believe that every believer is called to grow—not just in knowledge, but in Christlikeness. Our vision is to see students transformed by the Word of God, fully equipped for His Kingdom and mission.

Our Mission:

We are committed to equipping the Church with faithful disciples of Jesus who:

  • Worship wholeheartedly – Living a life centered on Christ, growing in deep intimacy with God.
  • Walk in obedience – Learning to study and apply Scripture, following the Holy Spirit’s leading.
  • Live in truth and love – Grounded in biblical wisdom, showing genuine love to all people.
  • Proclaim the gospel – Sharing the good news of Jesus  and making disciples who make disciples.
  • Strengthen the Church  – Investing in local and global ministry, using their gifts to serve and build up the Body of Christ.

At Legacy, our goal is not just to teach—but to train, challenge, and send out believers who are ready to make a lasting impact for the glory of God. Are you ready to step into a deeper calling? Legacy is here to help you grow, equip you for ministry, and prepare you for a life of purpose in God’s Kingdom.

Our Beliefs

Check out our core beliefs and doctrinal distinctives as outlined by our parent organization, Upward Bound Youth.

Our parent ministry: Upward Bound Youth

Learn more about our parent ministry, Upward Bound Youth (UBY). Legacy Bible Institute is a core expression of UBY's mission to teach truth and equip people with the gospel.

FAQs

  • What is Legacy Bible Institute?

    Legacy is a Bible-centered, gap-year discipleship program for young adults designed to strengthen faith, deepen biblical understanding, and help students discern God’s calling for the future.

  • Who is Legacy for?

    Legacy is designed for young adults ages 18–25, especially those in seasons of transition who want dedicated time and space to grow in God’s Word and be equipped for a future of faithfulness.

  • What makes Legacy different from other gap-year or discipleship programs?

    Legacy is intentionally small, deeply Bible-centered, and shaped by formation, mentoring, praxis, and local church partnership. Students are not just taught what to think – they are equipped to study Scripture, live it faithfully, and discern God’s direction for their lives.

  • How is Legacy connected to Upward Bound Youth?

    Legacy is one of UBY’s primary programs and a core expression of its mission to teach truth and equip people with the Gospel. It carries that mission into the lives of young adults through Scripture, formation, community, and practical discipleship.

  • Does Legacy replace the local church?

    No. Legacy is designed to come alongside the local church, not replace it. Church connection and participation are essential parts of the student experience.

  • Is Legacy just for future pastors or ministry workers?

    No. Legacy prepares students for faithful living in any calling, whether ministry, college, career, homemaking, or missions. The goal is not simply vocational ministry, but lifelong Gospel faithfulness.

Are you ready to step into a deeper calling?

Legacy is here to help you grow, equip you for ministry, and prepare you for a life of purpose in God’s Kingdom.