YoungLives Handbook - Flipbook - Page 59
ESSENTIAL # 5:
CHURCH AND
COMMUNITY
COLLABORATION
Collaboration with churches and the community is vital for gathering volunteers and potential financial
support. It also plays a crucial role in identifying potential resources and community advocates for
YoungLives. By partnering with community organizations, the ministry can leverage existing efforts
rather than duplicating them. As you start building a committee, its members will assist in forging
even more connections with churches and community agencies, enhancing the ministry’s reach and
impact.
BUILDING CHURCH RELATIONSHIPS
Churches are a valuable resource for establishing ministry partnerships for YoungLives Dads. Beyond
financial support, churches may provide club space, childcare, food, storage, and donations of supplies.
Encourage the church to be involved in the ministry through prayer, recruitment of volunteers as
mentors or childcare, and other support.
It is often easiest to begin with a church where you or someone you know has an existing relationship
with church leadership. It is equally important to direct your efforts to establish relationships with
churches in the community where you want to begin ministry (if your ministry is starting in a different
community than the one you live in).
To initiate contact, reach out to key individuals such as administrative assistants, missions pastors, or
men's ministry leaders. Introduce the mission and express the need for mentors and other volunteers.
Initial contact may be through a letter, but follow up with phone calls and aim to schedule a meeting.
Maintain records of your communications and follow up consistently. Be patient and maintain a neutral
perspective, as not all churches may choose to participate.
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