Turn Your VBS Volunteer Into a Year-round Player

VBS truly was the brightest week of the summer! It had been a successful five days. The backdrop was packed up, ready to go to its next church. All the craft supplies had been returned to their proper places, and the last piece of tape had been pulled off the wall. It was time for a much-needed, much-deserved rest. The last light was being turned off to go home, and there it was—one lonesome glow stick in the corner of the room, continuing to give its best little glow.

Even though VBS was over, that glow stick hadn’t stopped shining. Perhaps, after a little time to recoup, your VBS leaders will be excited to keep shining too! Here are five tips to help VBS volunteers “stick” to serving in kids ministry all year long.

S — Scan Your Volunteer List

S — Scan your volunteer list. Was there a volunteer whose face glowed as she participated in worship rally with the kids? She might enjoy leading music in kids worship or helping with kids choir. Did a volunteer shine as he spent time with a kid who needed a little extra attention? He might be a great buddy for a kid with special needs. Were there people who amazed you with their bright teaching skills, attention to detail, or creative abilities? No doubt these skills are needed all year long in kids ministry. Look for ways you can intentionally match the skill sets and interests of volunteers with ways they can continue to serve.

T — Talk to the Identified Leaders

T — Talk to the identified leaders about the vision of kids ministry. Share your enthusiasm for intentionally investing in kids to become lifelong disciples of Jesus and explain how your ministry is working to make that happen.

I — Invite Leaders to Serve

I — Invite these leaders to serve in a role where their gifts, talents, and interests all intersect. Give a personal invitation with a specific task in mind. Clearly communicate what the expectations of the task include. How often will they be expected to lead? Will the role last for a semester? A school year? A calendar year? Explain what resources will be provided to help them succeed. Give details about team meetings or trainings they will be expected to attend.

C — Connect New Leaders

C — Connect new leaders with experienced leaders. Establish a model, assist, watch, and leave system whenever possible. Allow new volunteers an opportunity to see their new role successfully modeled for them. Then encourage experienced volunteers to help assist new leaders for a while before watching them lead, ready to jump in if needed. When everyone is ready and confident, let the new leader leave the experienced leader to lead on his own.

K — Keep the Light Shining

K — Keep the light shining. Continue to check in with leaders regularly and offer support, encouragement, and appreciation. If leaders are struggling, walk alongside them to provide help and offer suggestions. Pray for your leaders and ensure that they are aware of the kingdom impact they are making!