I loved this post by Matt Lawson over at his blog, Revolution Speaks. It gives some very practical insights and actions steps to keep veteran volunteers on their game and relevant in youth ministry.
Here’s a clip. Go there for the rest:
6. INVEST YOURSELF INTO ONE YOUNGER LEADER EACH YEAR
Key: The next generation depends on successful baton passing
“We live in what may be one of the first generations in Western Civilization that is not intentionally preparing to pass its values to the next generation.” – Dr. Jeff Myers
Do something each month to encourage, inspire, motivate, or equip
Research shows that in every area of life, we are failing to pass the baton, from business (40% of senior management in Forbes 500 will retire by 2010 and half do not have a strategic plan to replace), politics, religion
The next generation coming behind spends way more time consuming than producing. The self absorption will create a leadership vacuum.
7. WORK HARD, PLAY HARD
Key: If you’re not having fun, neither is anyone else
It’s good for the students to see you and other leaders having fun
It allows them to have fun and makes the meetings a time to look forward to
Summer Camp: Starbucks for leaders, Donuts for kids, Disney World for my team
8. OLD DOESN’T MEAN OUT
Key: Don’t leave just because you are old. Students really do like old people
Have you ever heard students talk about them. “ahhhh. I want to be like…”
There’s gold in your wisdom
Vern, Horace Higginbotham, Mrs. Hamrick
