Most youth workers wait until the end of the year to encourage their adult volunteers. Why wait? Our adult volunteers need encouragement all the time. A note, a call or even a gift card could communicate to them that the sacrifice they are making is appreciated. Encouragement is the fuel that makes volunteers run.
Check out these creative ideas for encouraging your volunteers:
1. Car Notes
Write out a note with some specific encouragement. Let your volunteer know how important they are to students and to you. Then have someone place it on their car during the ministry night. At the end of a long day, it will help them know they are making a difference.
2. Ask Parents to Share
Ask your parents to contact their student’s small group leader and tell them how they see their students growing. Make sure parents tell the volunteers just how much they appreciate the work they are doing in their students’ lives.
3. Facebook Them
Go on Facebook and write on their wall about the difference they are making in students’ lives. That post will be seen by the whole network of the volunteer.
4. Praise Gossip
Gossip about the great job your volunteers are doing. Make sure you tell some “busy-bodies,” just to make sure the word gets out. This Sunday, tell everyone you meet about your volunteers and let the gossip start moving around the church.
