Volunteer Team
Volunteers are key to having any great event, especially VBS! You are going to need a strong team to come alongside you because Vacation Bible School typically has many components. You could possibly have people doing the following jobs: security, registration, music, teaching, assisting, cooking, crafting, etc. The list could go on and on!
VBS is a great opportunity to get individuals who do not typically serve in children’s ministry involved. It is less of a commitment than serving year-round, so usually people are more willing to sign-up.
The invitation to serve can be opened to your entire church. Once you promote your VBS theme and dates, have applications immediately available so that people can sign-up. Create a specific area of your church that promotes volunteer sign-ups. It could be a bulletin/information board, an application table, or even a drop box by the door. Take time to decorate this area so that it not only draws attention to your VBS, but it also creates excitement and positivity about submitting applications. Make sure that it is clear that all individuals working are required to pass a background check. Safety is always key in staffing a great event for kids. Also, there may be individuals who are not suited to work with children. These volunteers could help with advance preparations, such as decorations, gathering of supplies, etc.
When inviting people to serve, do not forget to personally recruit for specific roles. For example, you may want to put your regular children’s ministry teachers in teaching positions because they are already comfortable with children and the environment. If you have a worship leader, ask him to lead songs or to be in charge of the music rotation. The jobs that you approach people about individually are going to be the most important spots that you need to fill. These jobs typically require more preparation (studying, rehearsing, etc.), so make sure you get these volunteers their materials as early as possible.
