Let’s be real—volunteers are the backbone of youth ministry. If you’re reading this and thinking, “Yeah, I know, I’d be drowning without them,” then we’re on the same page. But here’s the question: are we *really* taking care of our volunteer leaders? Beyond the “thanks for being here” and an occasional slice of pizza? Here are some practical (and hopefully helpful) ways to take better care of the people who make your ministry happen.
1. Communicate Like They’re Family (Because They Kind of Are)
If your volunteers are the first ones to know when you get a new cat, that’s great! But let’s go deeper. Check in with them outside of youth night. Ask how they’re really doing, and be willing to listen when life isn’t all Instagram-filtered perfect. Bonus points if you actually remember the details and follow up. This builds a community, not just a team.
Quick Win: Send a text or quick voice memo each week to a couple of volunteers. A little personal outreach goes a long way.
2. Create “Snack Magic” Moments
Yes, I’m talking snacks. Not for the students—for the leaders! Think about it: most of them are coming straight from work or home with zero time to grab food. Setting out a quick spread can be a lifesaver. But here’s the trick: make it a surprise once in a while. Imagine the look on their faces when they walk into youth group to find fresh coffee, donuts, or even a taco bar.
Quick Win: Add a snack budget line just for volunteers, or team up with a generous parent to help make it happen.
3. Celebrate Wins—Big or Small
Did a volunteer connect with a student in a meaningful way? Did they survive leading a game that somehow turned into chaos? Celebrate it! Let your leaders know when they’re killing it, even if it’s in the small stuff. A simple shoutout, a post-youth group huddle, or even a card can make a huge impact.
Quick Win: Pick one leader every week to “spotlight” and shout out. Just make sure it’s authentic. Nothing feels worse than forced appreciation.
4. Invest in Their Growth
If you’re not developing your leaders, they’re probably not growing with you. Hold a mini-training every couple of months on practical topics like “How to Handle Tough Conversations” or “Keeping Your Energy High on Long Nights.” Not only does this equip them, but it also lets them know you’re invested in *their* growth, not just the students’.
Quick Win: Ask each leader what area they’d like to grow in, and send out occasional resources to match those needs. Keep it quick, but relevant.
5. Keep Ministry Fun, Not Just Functional
Sometimes we get so focused on making sure everything runs smoothly that we forget to make it fun. Let your volunteers in on the joy of ministry. Laugh together, play dumb games together, even go out as a group once in a while. When leaders enjoy being part of the team, they’ll bring that energy into their roles.
Quick Win: Plan a low-key night every couple of months just for your leaders. Bowling, bonfire, coffee hang—whatever works for your crew.
6. Ask for Their Input (And Actually Listen)
When was the last time you genuinely asked your volunteers what’s working and what’s not? They’re in the trenches with you every week, so listen up! Be ready to change something if their feedback says it’s needed, even if it’s uncomfortable. They’ll feel valued, and your ministry will improve in the process.
Quick Win: End every month with a five-minute “feedback chat” where they can share thoughts. Just let them know it’s a safe space to be honest.
7. Pray with Them and for Them
Yeah, it sounds obvious, but don’t miss this one. Praying *with* your leaders before every youth group creates unity, and praying *for* them throughout the week shows them you’re committed to their journey too. And if you’re comfortable, ask for prayer requests. You’ll be surprised how much it means to them when you follow up on that personal request they shared two weeks ago.
Quick Win: Keep a running prayer list for your team and check in regularly.
So, here’s the big takeaway: caring for volunteers isn’t rocket science, but it’s intentional. The more we invest in them, the more they’ll invest in students—and honestly, it just makes ministry way more fun. After all, we’re in this together. Let’s make sure our volunteers know we wouldn’t want it any other way.