How To Get The Most Out Of Your Budget

Budgets aren’t why most of us got into youth ministry, but it’s an important and simple tool. If we have a small budget we’re limited with what we can accomplish and if we have a large budget we have the ability to do more. While it is a luxury to have a big budget it can also be a burden, because if you do not use your money wisely it will go away.  So, where should you be spending your budget? While resources do matter, here are three areas you cannot afford to overlook:

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

How are you growing as a leader? To advance in your spiritual and professional growth you need to look at:

• Conferences and retreats you want to attend
• Books you need to read
• Courses and coaches that will bring the best out of you
• Extended education (e.g. Master’s Program or Certification)

While there is a lot you learn on the go it’s also important to set aside time and finances to help you grow your ministry in the direction it needs to go.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Not only do you need to grow, but so does your team. In addition to the list under professional development, you need to train your leaders so they can build confidence in their ability and clarity in what’s expected of them. While there are several free and affordable resources for training your team you need to budget in things like food and gratitude.

Your investment in leaders doesn’t have to be much but it can go a long way. The more they see you pour into them the more they’ll give back. You just need to make sure a thin budget doesn’t prevent you from investing in one of the most important parts of your ministry.

EVENTS AND OUTREACH

Your ministry is meant to grow disciples and reach the lost. While it’s important to have a consistent and sustainable ministry you’ll need to jumpstart it and fuel it with events that reach the surrounding community. Make sure you are strategic with how you plan your events. They should:

• Fuels your vision
• Leads into the sustainable part of your ministry
• Has measurable results

While you might not be able to compete with other youth-focused programs (e.g. sports) you shouldn’t try to cut corners. Go for quality even if that means fewer events. Quality will attract others and it will be easier to show your business manager or pastor why it’s worth the investment.

Youth ministry takes money to run and people need to understand the costs. Don’t shy away from the budget instead lean into the process. If you are not sure how it works engage in those conversations. Remember that you, your leaders and your strategy has value and is totally worth the investment.

What are you investing in when it comes to your budget?

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