what to look for in a youth volunteer

Youth Pastors and Youth Leaders running a youth ministry find out pretty quickly that their vision and desire to reach and impact youth cannot be accomplished alone. The volunteer team of a youth ministry becomes their most prized possessions. We all know the feelings and emotions felt when one of our leaders cannot make an event, when someone we count on is not available, or when a valued, gifted leader leaves our team. There is a sense of loss, but we bounce back quickly knowing God is ultimately our source and supply. It’s His ministry after all!

Even though God will make sure we have what we need, talented, committed leaders don’t come easy; and when they do, we hold on for dear life! Even though we thrive off of the availability of volunteers, we want to always make sure that the ones we get are quality. Not just anyone is “anointed” to work with youth. So how do we know when we have stumbled upon a jewel in a youth leader? Below is a list of seven key qualities to look for in a potential leader for our teams.

(Excerpt taken from “Middle School Ministry Made Simple,” by Kurt Johnston) Because we’re often desperate for help, men and women who lead youth ministries often take anyone who is breathing and willing to help out. Actually, as long as they’re breathing, we’ll take ‘em! We tend to worry about the willing part later.

I learned a lesson early on in my ministry career. When it comes to volunteers, quality is better than quantity. Having fewer of the right type of youth leaders is always better than having more than the wrong type. If you aren’t asking this question, let me ask it for you: “What do I look for in a youth volunteer? What type is the right type?”

In our ministry, we’ve made a list of seven key qualities we look for in a potential youth volunteer.

1. Spiritual Maturity – Because of the unique nature of this ministry, we look for volunteers who have strong character and are willing and able to answer the tough questions that youth ask. Unfortunately, many churches think the youth department is the perfect place for the young, immature leader to “cut his teeth.”
2. Sower Mentality – We’re looking for people who understand the fact that youth ministry is a process and that we won’t always see immediate results. The world is full of Christians who were exposed to the gospel in middle school/junior high, but didn’t become believers until later.
3. Fun – We’re looking for adults who don’t take themselves too seriously. We want leaders who can laugh at themselves and see the fun in everyday living.
4. Contagious – There needs to be something about each leader that attracts students.
5. Patient – Short-tempered, easily frustrated leaders do more harm than good.
6. Affirming – We live in a world of put-downs and sarcasm. Youth students need to feel affirmed, loved, and accepted.
7. Likes Teenagers – We’re looking for volunteers who don’t just love teens/youth…they actually like them!