Do you miss your volunteers? It’s easy to lose touch with volunteers in the summer. You are on vacation, they are on vacation, your schedule is different and so are theirs. Even though summer can fly by it’s easy to lose touch with your team and lose momentum.
And losing that momentum can slow down your efforts for the fall. the camaraderie and team atmosphere you’ve worked hard all year to build can go away. So, instead of losing touch, try and keep connected by:
Sometimes the best encouragement is unexpected. Next time you head on vacation pick up a postcard, and send them a note. Not sure what to write? Try these:
Keep the note simple and do it first thing so it arrives while you are still away.
Nothing is better than a cookout over the summer. Invite some of your team over for a little potluck. Supply the burgers, and hot dogs (Steaks if you have the budget!), and have them bring drinks, sides and dessert. If you want to make it a party ask them to bring their family. Bottom line keep it casual.
Instead of meeting for coffee, go for something cooler like ice cream! Who doesn’t like ice cream? Okay, maybe people who are lactose intolerant, in that case get them a snow cone or a frozen drink. The invitation for ice cream will be a little more fun, it’s a chance to change up the conversation and build a stronger bond.
Invite your team to join you for a summer movie. Make sure you pick one that the teens in your ministry are seeing. That way you can use the experience as team building and research. Going together is key because you can avoid being that one weird adult in a theater full of teens. Yes, people might judge you for seeing a teen movie, but at least you’ll have solidarity.
Whether it’s at the beach, on the plane, or back porch people are looking for a good book to read in the summer. Give your team a book that can help them grow in ministry. Pick out times when you all can meet for a coffee (Or a cone!) and discuss the book. Make summer reading fun again!
If you need a book suggestion, I have one HERE
Take your team on a road trip to a place that means something to you. The invitation will communicate that you want to show them something special to you. The car ride will create an intimate environment where you can share ideas and get to know one another more. The journey will help you all grow as a team.
This summer don’t forget about your leaders. By keeping in touch with them you’ll not only grow stronger relationships but set yourself up for success in the fall.
How do you stay connected and invest in your team during the year?