Beyond Barking: Orders How to Ignite Volunteer Engagement and Build Authentic Community

Looking at our volunteer group text and it's literally just me barking orders at people.

"VBS meeting Tuesday." "Someone grab construction paper." "Who's covering for Jessica?"

Like I'm their boss or something. No wonder nobody responds anymore. Sarah hasn't said anything in weeks. Tom just does thumbs up when absolutely has to. Mike left the chat entirely which made me feel like garbage but also wake up.

We only talk to these people when we want something. That's messed up when I think about it.

Had this moment like what if my boss only texted when she needed me to do stuff? Never asked how I was doing or cared about my life? I'd hate that job.

Oh crap. That's exactly what I'm doing to my volunteers.

Started over with group text. First message was picture of Marcus actually participating for once. "Look at this! Marcus raised his hand today! You guys are literally changing this kid's life."

Sarah immediately sent back million heart emojis and story about Marcus waving at her at Target. Tom said Marcus asked him about the lesson which never happens. Jessica added Marcus's mom told her he's talking about church at home now.

Suddenly we're having actual conversation about real kid instead of me giving everyone assignments.

Started texting volunteers when their kids did something cool during week. "Tom - Emma used that patience thing you taught her." Makes them feel like what they do Sunday actually matters rest of week.

Actually caring about their lives. Tom's freaking out about work. Sarah's mom is sick. Jessica's teenager struggling. Turns out when you care about people's real lives they feel more connected.

Random check-ins that aren't about work. "How's your week?" instead of "Can you do this thing?" Tom said no church person ever remembered stuff about his family before.

*For leaders whose volunteers feel like employees not friends, anyone realizing they only contact people when needing something, people learning that personal connection creates better ministry partnerships.
Check out KidsMinistry.Blog for more ideas, tips, and resources to help your Children's Ministry thrive!