The vision for KOINONIA had emerged out of a growing need within the Washington UBF church. KOINONIA was originally known as the Young Disciples of Jesus (YDJ), which was formed to disciple young adults to pursue God and his heart, while fostering Christ-centered fellowship. Over time, the term "young" became blurred as the group consisted primarily of post-graduate adults which began to alienate the younger undergraduates. With the counsel of peers and elders in the church, KOIN was formed to be an student-centered ministry where college students could grow, connect and be equipped in faith together.