Recruiting Into a Culture of JOY!

Recruiting isn’t about filling gaps—it’s about inviting others into the joy of God’s transformative work. Discover how to inspire volunteers and build a Christ-centered team that thrives on purpose and connection.

Natalie Frisk
3 minute read
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If joy is the heartbeat of your ministry, then volunteers are its hands and feet—living out the love of Christ in tangible ways. Recruiting a team of passionate, joyful volunteers is less about filling gaps (of course you have gaps to fill but hear me out…) and more about inviting others to experience the transformative work God is doing.

Here’s how you can inspire others to join your ministry and share in the joy:

1. It all starts with prayer

Before approaching anyone, bring your need to God. Recruitment begins in the heart of prayer—seeking His wisdom, inviting His guidance, and asking for Him to stir hearts. This reminds us that the ministry belongs to Him and ensures we’re relying on His leading.

Pro Tip: Gather your current team and pray specifically for new volunteers. This not only unites your team but also helps you stay open to God’s unexpected plans. (And sometimes He really surprises us!)

2. Share the vision, not the need

Instead of saying, 'We’re short on volunteers,' paint a picture of the mission. Help others see how God is at work transforming lives through your ministry and invite them into that bigger story. People are drawn to purpose and vision, not desperation. (Honestly, desperation may be how you feel inside, but in recruitment, it can be off-putting.)

Pro Tip: Share real stories of life change from your ministry. Whether it’s a child who discovered God’s love or a family strengthened in faith or another volunteer that has been blown away serving, testimonies bring your vision to life.

3. Make the ask personal

While stage announcements can spread awareness, they rarely move hearts. A personal invitation, grounded in relationship, is far more compelling. Take the time to affirm someone’s unique gifts and explain why you see them as a perfect fit.

Pro Tip: Empower your current volunteers to extend personal invitations. When someone hears, 'I think you’d be amazing at this,' from a friend, it’s a powerful encouragement.

4. Offer gentle on-ramps

Volunteering can feel intimidating. 'Am I supposed to get up in front of 'x' number of kids and command their attention for an hour? Am I supposed to know how to make a craft? Lead a game?'

Offer clear, low-pressure ways for people to get involved. Whether it’s shadowing a seasoned volunteer, joining a brief orientation, or starting with a simple task, make the first step approachable.

Pro Tip: Create a 'First Serve' opportunity where people can try serving for one day without committing long-term. It’s a chance to dip their toes in and experience the joy of ministry firsthand.

5. Highlight the joy of serving

Serving isn’t just about meeting needs; it’s about encountering God’s presence in community and mission. Show others the laughter, connection, and sense of purpose that come with volunteering. Joy is contagious—share it freely.

Pro Tip: Use photos, videos, or social media to capture moments of joy from your ministry. Smiling faces and heartfelt interactions speak volumes.

6. Equip and support

One of the biggest barriers to saying 'yes' is the fear of being unprepared. Reassure potential volunteers that you’ll equip them with the tools and training they need. When people feel supported, they’re more likely to step forward confidently.

Pro Tip: Pair new volunteers with a mentor for their first few weeks. Having a buddy to guide them makes the experience less daunting and more relational.

7. Celebrate every 'Yes'

When someone joins the team, celebrate! Recognize their step of faith and show your appreciation. Simple gestures—a heartfelt thank-you, a small gift, or a public acknowledgment—go a long way in affirming their value.

Pro Tip: Start a 'Welcome to the Team' tradition, such as a handwritten note from the leader or a fun welcome kit with ministry swag.

8. Build a culture of invitation

Recruitment isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing culture. Encourage your team to see themselves as inviters—always looking for others who might be ready to step into ministry. When invitation becomes second nature, your ministry will always have a steady flow of new energy.

Pro Tip: Regularly remind your team of the 'why' behind serving. When they’re grounded in the mission, they’ll naturally want to share it with others.

An invitation to joy

Recruiting volunteers is more than filling roles (even though I know you’ve got those roles to fill!); it’s inviting people into a story of transformation and joy. It’s a chance for them to experience the beauty of serving with kids, the growth that comes from stepping out in faith, and the deep relationships that form when we work together for God’s kingdom. When you approach recruitment as an invitation to joy, you’re not just growing a team—you’re building a Christ-centered community that reflects His love to the world.

We’ve packed all these ideas into a handy, printable guide. Click the link below to grab your free download and start empowering your volunteers today!

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