5 Ways to Recruit Church Volunteers Without Begging

You already know God has equipped his people to serve – and equipped someone to serve in each area where there’s a need. The problem is pulling those servants forward and getting them engaged. 

1. Know your why. You’re looking for more than names on a sign-up sheet, and potential volunteers are looking for more than the chance to get their names on a checklist. Collect stories of meaningful moments and treasured experiences to relate how your ministry matters. 
2. Offer a personal invitation. You’re more likely to get a positive response face to face than with a wide net cast from the pulpit. Public calls for volunteers are important but should never be the only avenue to service. 
3. Enlist the help of current volunteers. Someone who is already serving can share enthusiasm and meaningful insight about why the ministry is a great place to serve. 
4. Answer the what-if’s. What if I commit and decide it’s not for me? What if I commit and then discover I don’t have time? What if I want to volunteer, but I can’t commit to every week? Create answers (and solutions) ahead of time. For example, a ministry might offer a trial period for a volunteer, offer a limited schedule, or simply offer reassurance that this is service, not a sentence.  
5. Ask along the way. Churches sometimes get themselves in a bind when volunteer recruitment gets a late start or doesn’t move as quickly as hoped. Church members and ministry leaders can be encouraged to always prayerfully watch for those who might be a great fit for a particular ministry.