The success of your children’s ministry ultimately relies on the strength of your volunteer team—which means finding quality people who are onboard with your vision. Perhaps the most effective way to grow your team is to create a culture people want to be a part of. But remember: People won’t board a sinking ship.

Titanic Trip-Ups

Here are telltale signs to know whether you’re sending distress signals—or going full speed ahead.

• Your ads in the worship bulletin use the word need.

• You “guilt” people into serving.

• You’re more concerned about filling gaps than helping people find their “sweet spot” in ministry.

• The only time you connect with parents is when you’re asking them to serve.

• You’re burning out new volunteers with multiple tasks.

• You ask your pastor to solicit volunteers from the pulpit.

• You shove a new volunteer into a classroom with 40 4-year-olds…and one other adult.

Carnival Cruise Boarding Calls

On the flip side, people line up to board a Carnival Cruise ship. People want to join something that’s a fun adventure, feels like family, and knows where it’s headed.

• You can name people who’ve joined your team because a friend who loves serving in your area invited them.

• You’re aware that serving on your team is perceived as an opportunity to make an impact.

• You encourage lots of smiles and laughter.

• You place volunteers in positions that match their passions and talents.

• You have volunteers who form small groups and meet together for Bible study and prayer during the week.

• You host parties with no training involved.

• You hear volunteers regularly share stories of how serving has helped them grow in their faith.

• You ensure that volunteers clearly understand the mission of the ministry and their role in fulfilling it.

• Volunteers go home energized and excited about serving.

Which type of ship represents your children’s ministry? Don’t send out distress signals—instead, invite people to join you for the experience of a lifetime. Once your children’s ministry has a Carnival Cruise ship reputation, you’ll find it much easier to grow your team.

by Dale Hudson

Reprinted by permission, Children’s Ministry Magazine, Copyright 2010, Group Publishing Inc., Box 481, Loveland, CO 80539 www.childrensministry.com

Tags: volunteer

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