Before you post your first sign-up sheet, make your first phone call, or 'drop by' a friend's house to casually mention your need for a Snack-It Cafe leader, consider the following from the FaithWeaver Friends Director Manual (copyright 2002 and 2004)[http://store.grouppublishing.com/OA_HTML/ibeCCtpItmDspRte.jsp?item=46306&section=10871]:

FaithWeaver Friends is a relational program. Not just any warm body can fill the ministry roles you'll need at Friends. Leader training can sharpen anyone's ministry skills (and we'll send you excellent leader training materials every quarter in your Director Quarterly Update), but you have to start with people who are loving and caring, who don't consider children to be interruptions, and who will set aside any task to bend down and give a child an encouraging hug. Look for 'people' people who value relationships.

FaithWeaver Friends is an ongoing program. Decide now precisely what you'll ask volunteers to give. How much time, effort, energy, and money do you want them to contribute, and for how long? Are you seeking a quarterly commitment? an annual one? Will volunteers have to find their own substitutes if they get sick or go on vacation? Are there leader training sessions involved as well as Friends meetings? Volunteers who sign on with a complete understanding of what's involved are happier, more willing to go the second mile, and more effective than people who get 'roped' into helping. You need people who feel fulfilled and energized when working with kids, people who are serving in ways that honor their God-given gifts.

FaithWeaver Friends belongs to God. Be sure to 'pray' volunteers into your program as well as recruit them. Are there people you think would make a great addition to your team? Ask God to give them a passion for helping before rushing at them with a sign-up sheet and pencil.

Recruiting is an ongoing effort. Share your ideas, comments, and questions here. And God bless you and your ministry!

Deb Bernard

Curriculum Senior Marketing Manager