Community Roundtable - Developing Volunteers

We just hosted a Community Roundtable on developing volunteers, bringing customers together for a guided conversation about helping people find their place in ministry.

@Daniel Carroll shared how River Church develops leaders, clarifies volunteer roles, and builds systems that support people—not just schedules. Other ministry leaders shared what they’re trying, from coaching emerging leaders to giving new volunteers a chance to shadow a team.

Some of the key takeaways:

• Develop leaders, not just volunteers. Healthy leadership development helps people move from doing to owning and from managing to leading. @Elle Molinari shared how her church is creating opportunities for emerging leaders to lead while receiving development and coaching.

• Clear is kind. A role that seems obvious to us may not be clear to someone new. Writing role descriptions and setting expectations up front help volunteers understand what they’re saying yes to. @Brandon Benefield shared that his church offers a one-Sunday shadowing experience so people can see whether a team feels like the right fit before continuing onboarding.

• Build systems around relationships. Forms and processes can organize the path to serving, but personal conversations help people move through it. Daniel shared how River Church uses Church Center to share opportunities and collect interest, then follows up personally. @Ginneh Sessions discussed how her church builds volunteer and leadership development around people and empowering volunteer leaders to lead that process! @Shelby Fulcher reminded us that the culture around serving matters, too: “We GET to do this!”

Thank you to Daniel and everyone who joined us and shared their experiences!

Got a question for Daniel? Drop it in the comments—he'll be answering your questions.

Download the recap handout and templates below.

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