Everyone wants to be known.
But often, ministry volunteers are known for their gifts, where they serve, or how long they’ve served. Those facts are important, but they’re not enough. Getting personal with your volunteers means that you know them, lead them, and affirm them for more than just their performance.
Remember significant events like birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
Get to know what makes them feel loved and appreciated.
Get to know their family: spouses, children, and parents.
Plan your ministry calendar with their family in mind.
Ask how you can pray for them. And do it.
Learn about their hobbies and interests.
Ask about what’s important to them.
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Getting personal also means that volunteers know each other. Maintaining a strong sense of community is a crucial factor in volunteer retention as well as personal development.
You might host focused, team-building events prior to meeting time where volunteers can talk through ministry needs, share their stories, pray together, and get to know each other.
Elevating personal relationships as a ministry priority will cost you.
You’ll carry peoples’ burdens with them.
You’ll often extend yourself beyond your comfort zone.
But the risk will always pay off over time.
