KidCheck Secure Children's Check-In Shares Developing Strong Youth Ministry Teams: A Guest Post from Justin Knowles

This week, we are featuring a guest post from Justin Knowles. Justin oversees the kids’ and youth ministry teams for all 13 Sandals Church campuses in Riverside, CA. In his spare time, he co-hosts the Youth Ministry Hacks Podcast, writes about his adventures in ministry for the DYM Blog, and frequently speaks and teaches at various camps, retreats, and trainings. Most importantly, Justin is the father of two sons and a devoted husband to Kristin.

In the post, Justin shares four components of building vibrant and impactful ministry teams and reminds youth pastors that volunteers are not just individual contributors but valuable partners in the ministry journey.

Click here to view the original post on the DYM Blog.

Plus, to help youth leaders run their organizations more efficiently and free up time to focus on what matters, KidCheck offers YouthCheck, the only check-in system designed to meet the specific needs for youth and Volunteer Scheduling, a powerful addition to any volunteer strategy that helps save time and eliminate the manual processes of overseeing volunteers.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

In the dynamic world of youth ministry, volunteers are the heartbeat that keeps the mission alive. It’s not merely about filling roles; it’s about finding the right individuals for specific roles, about how people “feel” when serving on our teams, and if they feel like they know what they are doing when they show up. The journey towards a vibrant and impactful ministry team starts with pursuing clarity before pursuing people.

1. Pursue Clarity Before Pursuing People

Effective leadership begins with a clear vision. Before diving into recruitment, take the time to define your mission, goals, and the specific needs of your youth ministry. With a crystal-clear vision, you can make crystal-clear asks and identify the right volunteers who align with your objectives.

The adage “Leaders who know how to win, win” holds in youth ministry. Set clear targets for your team, outlining specific roles and responsibilities. This clarity not only guides your volunteers but also enhances the impact of your ministry.

2. Creating a Vibrant Team Culture

Beyond simply filling volunteer spots, creating a vibrant team culture is essential. It’s about fostering connections and building a sense of community among your volunteers. They become more committed and engaged when they feel connected to the mission and each other.

Host regular team-building activities, both within and outside of service hours. Encourage open communication and celebrate successes, big or small. A team that shares a strong sense of community is more likely to weather challenges and stay dedicated to the cause.

Here is an example of what I like to do:

  • Connect Weekly: Instead of trying to touch base with everyone every week, I encourage setting up weekly one-on-one sessions with leaders. Aim to connect with your crew individually every 4-6 weeks, fostering deeper relationships.
  • Gather Monthly: Designate a consistent date, perhaps the last Wednesday of the month, for a casual get-together. It could be a trip to In-N-Out or a similar outing after services. Initially, it may start slow, but as leaders engage, it will naturally grow into a valuable time for bonding. Informal ministry discussions are likely to occur in this relaxed setting.
  • Train Quarterly: Dedicate intentional quarterly sessions for training that focus on collective improvement. This includes team-building activities, learning sessions, and, of course, enjoying some good food together. Striking a balance between training and fun ensures growth and camaraderie within the team.

3. Effective Leadership: Being Available When It Counts

Leadership isn’t just about showing up; it’s about being available when it truly counts. Delegation and purpose are the cornerstones that empower leaders to be fully present during crucial moments. As a youth pastor, setting up your team for success is part of your leadership responsibility.

Delegate tasks based on individual strengths and skills. When your team feels equipped and confident in their roles, it frees you to be available for mentorship, guidance, and support during key moments. Successful leaders know how to empower their team, allowing everyone to contribute their best.

4. The Vital Elements of Health in Ministry Teams

In the pursuit of a thriving ministry team, focus on nurturing four vital elements: clarity, defined wins, community among leaders, and effective delegation.

  • Clarity: Clearly define your mission and communicate it consistently. This clarity will guide your team’s efforts and foster a shared sense of purpose.
  • Defined Wins: Establish clear goals and celebrate victories. Recognizing and appreciating your team’s accomplishments reinforces their commitment to the ministry.
  • Community Among Leaders: Build a supportive community among your leadership team. Encourage collaboration, open communication, and a sense of belonging.
  • Effective Delegation: Delegate tasks strategically, ensuring each team member plays to their strengths. This not only maximizes efficiency but also fosters a culture of trust and empowerment.

Youth pastors, remember that your volunteers are not just contributors; they are valuable partners in the ministry journey. By prioritizing clarity, building a vibrant team culture, and being available when it counts, you set the stage for a healthy and impactful ministry. Focus on these vital elements, and watch your youth ministry team thrive!

Click here to learn more about the benefits of using Youth Check-In and Volunteer Scheduling for your organization. For additional safety information,  subscribe to the KidCheck blog, or join our growing social community. You can find us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash