I am always looking for ways to express appreciation for volunteers.
Children's ministry volunteers are amazing. They serve faithfully behind the screens week in and week out to impact the next generation for Jesus.
But many volunteers never hear the words "thank you" or "I appreciate you."
In fact, one study revealed that 65% of volunteers have never been thanked for their service.
I can't emphasize enough how important it is to encourage your volunteers. I am always looking for ideas that can be used for this.
This past weekend, I was in Wal-Mart, picking up some meds for my wife. As I was waiting in line at the counter, something caught my eye. It was this (I snapped a picture of it).
It was a box that says "Did one of our team members go out of their way to make your day?
It contained cards that you could write a note in about how a team member went the second mile to make sure you were taken care of.
You could then hand it to a team member and they make sure it gets to HR so the person can be honored and celebrated.
Here's what the back of the card looks like.
You can write out how they helped you and then turn it in to a team member and they will make sure it gets to management and the team member who went the second mile for you.
This is a great idea and could easily be implemented into your ministry. You could create this card and then place it in key places. Then let parents and kids know what it's for.
It's a big, big deal for a volunteer to get a note like this. It will make their day.
One of the big factors in seeing volunteers serve long-term in a ministry is making them feel appreciated and valuable. This simple tool can help you give them this. And it will impact them and encourage them as they serve.
Your turn. What are some things you have done to show volunteers you are thankful for them? Share your ideas and insight in the comment section below.