Seth Godin recently listed the top ten reasons people work. Let’s translate this into the world of children’s ministry volunteers. Obviously, number one is off the list for volunteers. But take a careful look at the rest. You will see some key reasons why people join your team and stay on it.
1. For the money (n/a)
2. To be challenged
3. For the pleasure/calling of doing the work
4. For the impact it makes on the world
5. For the reputation you build in the community
6. To solve interesting problems
7. To be part of a group and to experience the mission
8. To be appreciated
What if you asked people to join your team based on the above? What if your volunteer messaging reflected the above? Instead of begging people to volunteer, what if you showed them the spiritual benefits they will receive from serving? Are your current volunteers discovering these through serving in your children’s ministry?
I believe every person internally longs to see these fulfilled in their life. Show them how serving in your children’s ministry can help them take a huge step toward these, and you’ll find your volunteer team growing.
