Northview Church is a multi-site church located in Central Indiana. Northview has played a key role in its community for over 30 years, bringing together more than 10,000 people in attendance every weekend. Catering to members spanning across seven campuses, Northview relies on their dedicated volunteers and team members to help uphold the ultimate church-going experience.
I had the opportunity to speak to Kelli Taylor, a children’s teachers at Northview Church. Throughout the podcast interview, Kelli discusses the vital role of volunteers in the classroom and the ways they enhance the classroom experience. Below, I highlight three important takeaways from the discussion.
1. It takes a village.
Volunteers are an integral part of continuing Christ’s mission. Jesus calls all of his followers to serve, and in many cases, church communities need all hands on deck!
Having volunteers readily available to help in the classroom only adds to the overall experience for the children. Not only does it introduce them to solid role models within the community, but it also helps amplify the lessons being taught.
Kelli noted that the children truly look forward to engaging with volunteers in the classroom. It provides students with the chance to diversify the way they receive the curriculum. For example, interacting with a volunteer presents a different learning experience than sitting and engaging in video content. Volunteers can help the class run more smoothly, while also promoting a multi-dimensional classroom experience.
2. Don’t be afraid to have fun with it!
A common hesitation about volunteering in the classroom is fearing you’re not an expert on the material yourself. The good news is— you don’t need to be! The teachers and volunteer coordinators are ready to help you help them.
“Once we are able to get people to volunteer [...] we do try to make it as easy as possible for them. We give them the curriculum. We have everything set up for them.”
There is no need to worry about being “the perfect volunteer,” just have fun with it! Kelli noted that the students have a tendency to feed off of the volunteer’s positive energy. All you need to do is show up ready to be yourself and dive in when needed.
“It’s really well set up for our volunteers to come in, and when they step into the classroom they feel comfortable and confident in what they’re doing and then that leads into the kids. When the kids see the volunteers having fun and engaging with them and feeling comfortable with the content that we’re doing, it just engages them more.”
3. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.
In today’s fast-paced culture, it can be difficult to find time to slow down and try something you’ve never done before. Kelli noted that this is often one of the biggest challenges when working to recruit volunteers. However, she further emphasized that once she gets volunteers to come in for their first time, they find themselves truly enjoying the opportunity.
Not only is the volunteer experience beneficial to the students and teachers, but it can also deepen your relationship with your Church community. By serving others and simultaneously strengthening your relationship with God, volunteering brings forth a very fulfilling experience.
Whether the pastor gives a plug for volunteering in his sermon, or you just want to observe what your child is learning, there is always a good reason to volunteer in your Church community. Try reaching out to your church’s volunteer coordinator to learn how you can start making a difference!
Want to learn more about the role of volunteers? Click here to listen to Kelli and Grant’s full podcast interview.