Chi Alpha

At a young age, Nate Vanderhoof felt lonely and disconnected. During his teen years, he was at his lowest point struggling through various addictions. But since joining Fresno Christian fellowship — Chi Alpha — he has found God.

“He wasn’t rejecting me. The whole time he was with me; I just didn’t know it,” Vanderhoof says. “The thing was that I was controlled by fear.”

 Vanderhoof’s journey with God started before Chi Alpha; however, his battle with making bad decisions continued. The impact from members of the club was so influential that he decided to truly commit himself.

Chi Alpha director Daniel Smith gives advice about relationships, time management, and finances to students.

Smith says Vanderhoof has grown in his academics and in his faith.

“The greatest change I’ve seen in him is turning ideas or desires or intention into action,” Smith says.

Smith’s wife Abby says Vanderhoof is always pushing other students to do their best.

“He’s mature in the Lord, but not only that, he’s open to being taught, he’s open for correction, open to learn and to grow,” Smith says. “That’s the main characteristic of a leader.”