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25 Nov 2024

Show Some Love to Your Volunteers!

By |2024-11-25T11:55:35-08:00November 25th, 2024|Volunteers|0 Comments

Volunteers are the backbone of every youth ministry. They invest their time, energy, and hearts into making a difference in the lives of students, and we often couldn’t do it without them. But how often do we let them know just how much we appreciate their efforts?

Showing gratitude doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; small gestures go a long way in making your volunteers feel valued and supported. Let’s dive into three actionable ways to show your team some love today:

1. Write a Handwritten Thank-You Note

In a world of quick texts and emails, a handwritten note feels like a warm hug. Take a few moments to write a heartfelt thank-you to one of your volunteers. Be specific about something they’ve done that made an impact—whether it was their leadership during a small group or simply their welcoming smile on a Sunday morning.

Why It Matters:
Personalized recognition reminds your volunteers that you see them and value their unique contributions. Plus, they’ll hold onto that note as a reminder of why they serve.

2. Publicly Celebrate Their Efforts

Whether it’s a shout-out during your youth service, a post on your ministry’s social media, or a highlight in your parent newsletter, take time to publicly recognize your volunteers. Share a quick story or fun moment that showcases their impact.

Why It Matters:
Celebrating them in front of others not only encourages the recognized volunteer but also inspires the rest of your team. It sets the tone for a culture of appreciation within your ministry.

3. Ask for Their Feedback

Sometimes the best way to show you value someone is to listen. Ask your volunteers how they’re feeling about their roles, what they need, and how you can better support them. A simple coffee meeting or a quick feedback form can open up meaningful conversations.

Why It Matters:
When volunteers feel heard, they feel empowered. Creating space for their input strengthens your ministry relationships and shows that you value them as partners, not just helpers.

Why Gratitude Matters

Expressing appreciation not only boosts your volunteers’ morale but also transforms your ministry culture. It fosters trust, deepens relationships, and makes your team feel like family. As you intentionally show love to your volunteers, you’ll see the ripple effects in their enthusiasm and commitment to serving.

So, who’s your first thank-you note going to today?

22 Jul 2024

Reflecting on a Summer of Ministry

By |2024-07-22T13:02:16-07:00July 22nd, 2024|Youth Ministry Ideas|6 Comments

As we transition from summer to fall, it’s a great time to reflect on the experiences and lessons we’ve gathered over the past few months. Here’s some advice on how you can use the summer’s growth and experiences to strengthen your ministry year-round:

Student Testimonies: Harnessing Stories of Faith and Transformation

One powerful way to inspire your youth group is by sharing student testimonies. Here are a few ways to effectively incorporate these stories:

  • Encourage Sharing: Create opportunities for students to share their faith journeys, whether through dedicated testimony nights or casual discussions. Hearing peers speak about their experiences can be incredibly motivating for other students.
  • Document Experiences: Collect and document testimonies from summer camps, mission trips, and small groups. Written or video testimonies can be shared during fall events or posted on your ministry’s social media to highlight the transformative power of your programs.
  • Reflect on Growth: Use these testimonies as a starting point for discussions about personal growth and spiritual development. Reflecting on how students have grown over the summer can set the stage for continued growth in the fall.

Volunteer Highlights: Recognizing and Empowering Your Team

Your volunteers play a crucial role in your ministry’s success. Here’s how you can celebrate and empower them:

  • Showcase Dedication: Regularly recognize and celebrate the efforts of your volunteers. Highlight their contributions in newsletters, during services, or on social media. This not only shows appreciation but also motivates others to get involved.
  • Foster Creativity: Encourage volunteers to bring their creative ideas to the table. Whether it’s planning events or developing new programs, their unique perspectives can lead to innovative and engaging ministry opportunities.
  • Provide Support: Ensure your volunteers feel supported and valued. Offer training sessions, regular check-ins, and opportunities for feedback. A well-supported volunteer team is more effective and enthusiastic.

Key Takeaways: Applying Summer Lessons to Future Ministry

Reflecting on the lessons learned during the summer can help shape your ministry moving forward. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

  • Build Connections: Focus on building strong, personal connections with your students. Encourage small group participation, one-on-one mentoring, and casual hangouts to foster a sense of community and belonging.
  • Embrace Flexibility and Creativity: Be open to new ideas and adaptable in your planning. Flexibility allows you to respond to the evolving needs of your students, while creativity can lead to more engaging and memorable experiences.
  • Intentional Spiritual Growth: Design programs with intentional opportunities for spiritual growth. Incorporate prayer workshops, Bible studies, and service projects that challenge and inspire students to deepen their faith.

By reflecting on and applying these lessons, you can create a thriving ministry that nurtures the faith and growth of your students throughout the year. Let the successes and experiences of the summer guide and inspire your plans for the fall and beyond.

Need something to really help you get kickstarted with Fall? Check out DYM’s free customizable Fall Calendar!

16 Oct 2023

10 Tips For Your First Few Years in Youth Ministry

By |2023-10-16T07:04:15-07:00October 16th, 2023|Leadership|8 Comments

This week, DYM is hosting its amazing “First Few Years” conference!

This particular blog writer is NOT experiencing any FOMO. Not even the slightest bit. Promise. Ok maybe a little.

If you’re like me and couldn’t make it out to California, but are just starting out in ministry, here’s a blog just for you!

I know those early years can be both thrilling and challenging, so let’s dive into some tips and advice that’ll help you navigate this exciting journey.

  1. Stay Authentic: You’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s worth repeating. Be yourself. Students can spot a fake from a mile away. Don’t try to be the “cool” youth pastor if that’s not who you are. Instead, be real, genuine, and relatable. Authenticity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of effective ministry.
  2. Build Relationships: Ministry is all about people, and that means building deep, meaningful relationships. Take time to get to know your students, their families, and your fellow church staff. The more you invest in relationships, the more impact you’ll have on their lives.
  3. Learn and Adapt: Youth culture is always changing, and you need to stay up-to-date. Engage with the latest trends, music, and technology. Be open to learning from your students and be willing to adapt your approach. The more relevant you are, the more you can connect with and influence young people.
  4. Listen More, Talk Less: We often think we need to have all the answers, but sometimes, the best thing you can do is listen. Be a good listener, and ask open-ended questions. When you truly hear their concerns, joys, and struggles, you can offer guidance that’s more meaningful and relevant.
  5. Set Boundaries: Ministry can be all-consuming, but it’s essential to set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Take time for yourself and your family. Burnout won’t help anyone, and it certainly won’t help your students.
  6. Be Flexible: Plans will change. Events will be canceled. Volunteers won’t show up. That’s just part of youth ministry. Learn to roll with the punches and be flexible. A positive attitude in the face of adversity will inspire your students and fellow leaders.
  7. Seek Mentorship: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find a mentor or a more experienced youth pastor who can offer guidance and support. They’ve been through what you’re experiencing and can provide valuable insights.
  8. Pray Continuously: Remember that youth ministry is not a one-person show. Seek God’s guidance through prayer. Pray for your students, their families, and your ministry as a whole. The Holy Spirit is your ultimate guide, counselor, and source of strength.
  9. Celebrate Wins: In youth ministry, small victories matter. Celebrate the little moments of growth, connection, and transformation. These wins will keep you motivated and remind you why you’re in this role in the first place.
  10. Stay Humble: Finally, remember that you’re not perfect, and that’s okay. We all make mistakes, and ministry is a journey of growth. Stay humble, admit when you’re wrong, and learn from your experiences.

Welcome to the incredible world of youth ministry! It’s a place where you can make a lasting impact on young lives and grow in your own faith journey. These early years are a foundation for what’s to come, so embrace the adventure, and remember, you’re not alone on this exciting ride. If you ever need advice, support, or just someone to chat with, the youth ministry community is here for you. Find support on the DYM Facebook Community page or reach out directly!

Together, we’ll make a difference in the lives of our amazing students!

25 Sep 2023

How to Follow up Volunteer Training

By |2023-09-25T12:49:52-07:00September 25th, 2023|Leadership|1 Comment

We all know that training is a crucial step in equipping our volunteer leaders for effective ministry. It’s a time to share knowledge, build skills, and connect with one another. But what happens after the training? Well, that’s where the magic really starts to happen! Once a great training, like the National Day of Volunteer Youth Ministry Training concludes, what do you do next?

1. Express Gratitude

First and foremost, let’s express our sincere appreciation to our volunteer leaders. Tell them how grateful you are for their commitment and dedication to our youth ministry. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in making them feel valued and recognized for their hard work.

2. Recognize Their Efforts

Take the time to recognize the efforts of our volunteer leaders. Celebrate their successes, both big and small. Whether it’s a successful youth event, a breakthrough moment with a young person, or their unwavering dedication, let them know you see and appreciate their contributions.

3. Provide Feedback

Feedback is a powerful tool for growth. Offer constructive feedback to help them improve their skills and leadership abilities. Highlight what they’re doing well and gently suggest areas where they can grow. Remember, it’s all about helping them become the best leaders they can be.

4. Support Their Growth

Encourage our volunteer leaders to invest in their own growth. Whether it’s attending training sessions, reading relevant books, or seeking mentorship, let them know that their personal development matters to us. Offer resources and opportunities for them to expand their knowledge and skills.

5. Foster a Supportive Community

Our youth ministry teams should feel like a family. Create an environment where our volunteer leaders can connect with one another, share experiences, and offer support. Hosting regular meetings or gatherings can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

6. Empower Them

Empower our volunteer leaders to take ownership of their roles. Encourage them to bring their creativity and ideas to the table. When they feel a sense of ownership and responsibility, they’re more likely to be motivated and engaged.

7. Be a Listening Ear

Sometimes, our volunteer leaders may need someone to talk to. Be that listening ear. Create a safe space where they can share their joys and challenges. Remember that we’re here to support them not only in ministry matters but in their personal lives as well.

8. Pray Together

Lastly, let’s not underestimate the power of prayer. Pray together as a team for the youth ministry, for each other, and for the young people we serve. Prayer not only strengthens our bonds but also reminds us of the greater purpose behind our ministry.

Encouraging our volunteer leaders is not just a nice thing to do; it’s an essential part of nurturing a thriving youth ministry. When our leaders feel appreciated, supported, and empowered, they can, in turn, pour that positivity into the lives of our students.

Let’s continue to inspire one another, share our successes and challenges, and build a community of youth pastors who are passionate about equipping the next generation. Together, we can make an incredible impact.

Need some resources for your leaders? We’ve got you covered!

18 Sep 2023

7 Reasons to Let Students Lead

By |2023-09-18T08:08:02-07:00September 18th, 2023|Leadership|11 Comments

You’ve got adult volunteers. That’s awesome! Train them, and you’ll see great growth in your student ministry! But what about your students? Should they be given extra responsibility and ways to lead and grow? Of course! Here are seven reasons why letting students lead and encouraging them to do so will benefit them and the student ministry as a whole!

  1. Ownership of Faith:When students actively participate in the youth ministry by serving in various capacities, they develop a sense of ownership over their faith. It transforms their faith from something their parents or guardians believe into something they can call their own. By being involved in planning events, leading discussions, or volunteering in leadership, they start to see how their faith is relevant and meaningful in their lives.
  2. Leadership Development:Serving in youth ministry provides an excellent opportunity for leadership development. As students take on responsibilities, they learn valuable communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. These skills are essential for their roles within the ministry and future endeavors, both in their careers and as responsible adults.
  3. Spiritual Growth:Engaging in service within the youth ministry often leads to significant spiritual growth. Students can deepen their understanding of their faith as they study and share it with their peers. They are more likely to ask questions, seek answers, and seek a deeper connection with their spiritual beliefs. This active engagement can help them form a stronger, more resilient faith that can withstand the challenges of adulthood.
  4. Mentorship Opportunities:When students serve in youth ministry, they often work alongside dedicated adult leaders who can serve as mentors. These mentors provide guidance, support, and encouragement, helping students navigate the complexities of adolescence and faith. These relationships can be instrumental in shaping their character and faith journey.
  5. Building Community:Service in youth ministry fosters a strong sense of community among young people. They bond with their peers as they work together on projects and events. These connections can be particularly meaningful, as they share a common faith and purpose. It provides a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their spirituality and share their struggles and triumphs.
  6. Empowerment:Giving students responsibilities within the youth ministry empowers them to make a difference. It sends a powerful message that their opinions and contributions matter. This empowerment boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to take an active role in their faith community and, later on, in society.
  7. Passing on the Torch:When students serve in youth ministry, they become the role models for the younger generation. They set an example of what it means to live out one’s faith. This torch passing ensures the youth ministry’s continuity and growth, as younger students are inspired to follow in their footsteps.

Conclusion

Having students serve in their youth ministry is a win-win situation. It benefits both the students themselves and the broader faith community. It empowers students to take ownership of their faith, develop leadership skills, experience spiritual growth, and build a strong sense of community. It also ensures the future vitality of the youth ministry by creating a cycle of mentorship and inspiration.

Encouraging and supporting students in their service roles within youth ministry is an investment in the next generation of leaders and faithful individuals. It acknowledges that students have a valuable role in the church’s life and that their contributions are essential for its continued growth and relevance in an ever-changing world.

Need some help getting your students leading? We’ve got the tools for you!

11 Sep 2023

Winning Youth Ministry: Training Volunteers

By |2023-09-11T14:32:47-07:00September 11th, 2023|Youth Ministry Hacks|3 Comments

Volunteers are the unsung heroes who invest their time and hearts into shaping the spiritual growth of the next generation. In the world of youth ministry, nothing is as crucial as ensuring your volunteers are well-trained and fully equipped for the incredible task they’ve taken on. Let’s dive into the significance of training volunteers, how it benefits them, strengthens your ministry, and impacts your church.

Empowering Your Volunteers

Let’s start with the heart of it all: your volunteers. These are the individuals who selflessly give their time and passion to nurture the faith of the youth in your church. So, why is training them so important?

Through training, your volunteers acquire the necessary skills to engage with and make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people. This includes honing their communication skills, mastering conflict resolution, and becoming experts in lesson planning. Training often includes personal spiritual development, which allows your volunteers to deepen their own faith as they guide others on their spiritual journeys. When volunteers receive thorough training, they gain the confidence they need to tackle the challenges that come their way. A confident volunteer is an enthusiastic and dedicated one.

Strengthening Your Ministry

Having a standardized training program ensures that all your volunteers are on the same page, delivering a consistent message and experience to the youth in your ministry. Proper training encourages your volunteers to bring fresh ideas and innovative approaches to your ministry, fostering creativity and adaptability. Volunteers who know their roles and responsibilities well are more efficient in planning and executing activities, ultimately lightening the load on youth pastors.

Impacting Your Church

The positive effects of volunteer training don’t stop at your youth ministry’s doorstep—they have a wider impact on your church community. A vibrant and well-organized youth ministry can attract more families to your church, contributing to overall church growth. Volunteers who feel valued, equipped, and confident are more likely to stay committed to your church for the long term. A thriving youth ministry has the potential to engage the broader community and draw new members to your church family.

Hey! This is a great time to talk about training your volunteers!

Sign up for National Day of Volunteer Youth Ministry Training. This event is about to become your secret weapon for supercharging your volunteer training efforts and setting your youth ministry up for unprecedented success.

  • Date: September 23, 2023
  • Cost: Just $199 for your entire volunteer team
  • Location: Take your pick between hosting it at your church or attending one of our 300+ locations

Here’s the best part: the cost is per group, not per person. This means you can bring as many youth ministry volunteers as you can gather, making it the best deal in youth ministry.

On this special day, your volunteers will receive youth ministry-specific training from renowned speakers like Christine Caine, Albert Tate, Doug Fields, and more. It’s going to be a fun, helpful, and momentum-building experience that will leave your volunteers inspired and ready to make a profound impact on the lives of the youth in your community.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to invest in your volunteers and, in turn, elevate your youth ministry and church. Mark your calendar for September 23, 2023, and get ready to equip your team for an amazing ministry year.

In conclusion, remember that your volunteers are the backbone of your youth ministry. By giving them the tools they need to succeed, you’re not only investing in their personal growth but also in the future of your ministry and church. So, gear up for the National Day of Volunteer Youth Ministry Training, and watch your volunteers soar to new heights.

Need something to start training your volunteers right now? Check these awesome resources out from DYM!

5 Sep 2023

Maximizing Youth Ministry Impact: The Benefits of One-Night Events

By |2023-09-05T08:04:35-07:00September 5th, 2023|Youth Ministry Ideas|14 Comments

Youth ministry is more than just Sunday gatherings and midweek services; it’s about fostering deep connections, spiritual growth, and memorable experiences for our students. While regular meetings are the backbone of any youth ministry, one-night events can add an exciting and transformative dimension to your youth program. In this blog post, we’ll explore how hosting one-night events can be incredibly beneficial to your youth ministry and the students you serve.

  1. Building Excitement and Anticipation

One-night events offer a unique opportunity to break away from the routine and create a sense of anticipation among your students. Whether it’s a themed worship night, a fun game night, or a service project, the idea of a special event can generate excitement that extends beyond the event itself. This anticipation can help boost attendance and engagement among your youth group.

  1. Reaching Out to New Faces

One-night events are a fantastic way to introduce new students to your youth ministry. They provide a low-pressure, non-committal environment where newcomers can experience the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of your group without feeling overwhelmed. These events can serve as a gateway for students who might later become regular members of your ministry.

  1. Addressing Specific Topics or Needs

Sometimes, youth face unique challenges and questions that require a more focused approach. One-night events can be tailored to address specific topics or needs, such as mental health, relationships, or faith questions. These events can provide a safe space for open discussions and support, helping students navigate these crucial aspects of their lives.

  1. Strengthening Community Bonds

Community is at the heart of any successful youth ministry. One-night events offer an opportunity for students to bond in a different context, strengthening their relationships and creating lasting memories. Whether it’s a retreat, a camping trip, or a simple game night, these events encourage fellowship and unity among your youth group.

  1. Providing Spiritual Growth Moments

One-night events can also be spiritually enriching experiences. You can organize prayer nights, worship services, or guest speakers who can inspire and challenge your students in their faith journeys. These events can serve as catalysts for personal growth and spiritual awakening.

  1. Reigniting Passion

In the midst of the challenges and distractions young people face, it’s not uncommon for their passion for faith to wane. Hosting one-night events with powerful worship, impactful testimonies, or engaging activities can reignite their passion for Christ and His mission. These events can remind them of the joy and purpose found in their relationship with God.

  1. Creating Lasting Memories

Youth ministry is not just about imparting knowledge but also creating memories that will last a lifetime. One-night events often become cherished memories for students, reinforcing their connection to your ministry and to each other.

Conclusion

One-night events are a valuable addition to any youth ministry’s toolbox. They can help build excitement, reach new students, address specific needs, strengthen community bonds, foster spiritual growth, reignite passion, and create lasting memories. By incorporating these events into your ministry plan, you can enhance your ability to nurture the spiritual and personal growth of the young people you serve. Remember, it’s not just about the event itself but the impact it has on the lives of your students that truly matters.

Need an idea for a great one night event? Check out these two ideas out from DYM!

14 Aug 2023

Starting Off Small Groups Right

By |2023-08-14T10:47:41-07:00August 14th, 2023|Small Groups|3 Comments

As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisper (at least there’s a rumor cold air is happening somewhere around here…), it’s the perfect time to kick off small groups within your youth ministry. I’m excited to share some practical tips with you that will help you create an enriching and transformative experience for your students this fall. Let’s dive in:

1. Select Clear Topics and Themes:

Imagine sitting down with your small group, ready to dive into meaningful conversations. To make that happen, choose topics and themes that genuinely resonate with your students. Think about their needs, interests, and challenges. When you address subjects that matter to them, you’ll spark engagement and encourage everyone to actively participate. 

Want to make it a double win? Get on board with your church’s vision statement and show how what you’re talking about correlates to that!

2. Recruit and Train Leaders:

Leaders are the heartbeat of your small groups. Identify individuals who have a passion for mentoring and guiding others. These leaders don’t have to be experts; they just need a heart that cares. Equip them with training, resources, and ongoing support. When leaders feel confident and well-prepared, their guidance will inspire great discussions and growth.

Check out some of the resources down below for more info!

3. Define Group Guidelines:

Creating a safe and open space is huge for effective small groups. Sit down with your leaders and craft clear group guidelines together. Address behaviors, confidentiality, and mutual respect. These guidelines set the tone for an environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, questions, and struggles.

Make sure students are on board with these guidelines and are willing to participate with these in mind!

4. Incorporate Prayer and Worship:

Picture your small group gathering around in a circle, connecting not only with each other but also with Jesus. Start or end each session with prayer and worship. It deepens the spiritual experience, reminding everyone that they’re part of something bigger than themselves. This practice also fosters unity and encourages students to explore their faith journey together.

Remind students they aren’t just here for fellowship! They’re here to experience the life changing work of God!

5. Celebrate Milestones:

We all love celebrating victories, right? Well, your small groups should be no different. Recognize and celebrate milestones—whether it’s someone’s spiritual breakthrough, a goal achieved, or personal challenges overcome. These celebrations create a sense of accomplishment and belonging, making your small group feel like a tight-knit community.

As you embark on this exciting journey of fall small groups, remember that you’re not just organizing meetings; you’re fostering a space for growth, connection, and transformation. Keep these tips close as you create a nurturing environment for your students.

Need some resources to get your fall in full swing? Check these awesome Co-Leader resources out!

24 Jul 2023

Ministering to Students Who Aren’t Showing Up

By |2023-07-13T13:16:16-07:00July 24th, 2023|Uncategorized, Youth Ministry Hacks|11 Comments

We just recorded a podcast for Youth Ministry Hacks (CLICK HERE to listen) about the importance of following up in youth ministry. Follow up is such an important aspect of ministry but something easily overlooked because it’s easy to miss to move on to bigger and better things. 

One of the things I get asked the most about in youth ministry is what is the exact system we have set up in order to make sure student don’t fall through the cracks? Below is what we have set up right now. Does it work? If I am honest, we don;t know yet. We only really started the whole process in all phases about 2 months ago. It seems to be doing it’s job. I do know we will be looking at it and adjusting  it as we go, but it seems to at least fill some holes we had noticed over the past two years of having lots of news students but not being at “sticky” as we have been wanting. 

We are in a season where we have the ability to track who is coming to our campuses and we want to make sure we are effectively following up with every student who walks through our doors throughout the year. 

We will run a weekly (new students), a monthly (this month vs last month) and a quarterly (CCB roster scrub) report. 

The following is how we need to be following up with each group of students that we can run reports on:

1st Time Student Follow Up:

When a new student comes to SCY for the first time they fill out a QR code with their info. The info gets put into a list where the youth network team will then create a new student profile and put it in a queue for the youth lead to follow up with.

Here is how the process is set up in CCB:

  • Thursday
    • “Glad you came” postcards get written up (cards have been provided) and addressed with a note and put in the mail. 
    • Follow up text from the lead. 
    • Follow up text from the group leader they were placed with the previous night. 
    • Parent email, introducing the lead and the ministry
  • Tuesday
    • Queue will prompt a follow up invite with a text from the youth lead to invite back to groups the following night. 
  • Thursday
    • Youth lead will check to see if that student came back to groups. 
      • If student did, connect with them and let them know they are so glad they got to come back and will help them get more connected in the ministry 
      • If the student did not, they will keep them in the queue and invite them back the following week for 3 weeks. 

Monthly CCB Report – Students who checked in last month but not this month

We have the ability now to run a monthly report of every student who checked into a group the previous month who has not come back the current month. This is a good way to follow up with kids we have not seen in a bit and a good way to see if any of the first time students have been plugged in. 

Follow up should look like the following:

  • All follow up should happen within two weeks of receiving the roster by campus. 
  • A “We miss you” postcard addressed with a note from the lead be sent in the mail. 
  • A call or text to the student
    • “Hey! We have noticed you have not been here in a few weeks. Just letting you know we miss seeing you! We hope you are good. Is there anything that we can be praying for you about or do for you and your family? We hope to see you soon!
    • Something along those lines. 
  • An email to the parent with a very similar text. 
  • If the CP knows the family, they can reach out to the parents. 

Quarterly CCB Report – Students who have checked in this year, but who have not come this quarter

We have the ability to run a report to see students who we have not checked in at youth for 3 months. This is a great opportunity to reach out to youth and parents to let them know we notice, to check in and invite back. 

Follow up should look like the following:

  • A “We miss you” postcard addressed with a note from the lead be sent in the mail. 
  • A call or text to the student
    • “Hey! We have noticed you have not been here in a few weeks. Just letting you know we miss seeing you! We hope you are good. Is there anything that we can be praying for you about or do for you and your family? We hope to see you soon!
    • Something along those lines. 
  • An email to the parent with a very similar text. 
  • If the CP knows the family, they can reach out to the parents. 
  • That student should be removed from any CCB group roster so we can have accurate information in regards to youth rosters as they are a leading indicator for the success of youth at Sandals. 

Whatever church management system you have, it really doesn’t matter, you can take this process and apply it. If your group is small or if it’s massive, the important part is being intentional with the process of follow up to make sure you are covering all bases and making connections with students. 

Hope this is helpful. 

@justinknowles3

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