Calendaring for Outreach
Free Download! Calendar Suggestions for Outreach Events [PDF]
Calendaring may be the most important step in the organization of the outreach program. Once ideas have been solidified, the direction of the outreach program must be placed on the calendar. By providing dates for events, the ideas become real events that people can anticipate and plan to attend. Throughout the calendaring process some things must be included, and some must be avoided. Let’s first look first at the “do” list, and then we will consider the “do not” list.
Do List
Include All Age Groups in Outreach
Sometimes the expectation for involvement in outreach is placed only on the adult members of the church. Remember that all age groups are unique in their abilities to reach their own peer group. Calendared events should reflect planning for all ages.
Do Take Funding into Consideration
Remember the outreach program is working within budgeted guidelines, whether a church budget or your own personal finances. Thought must be given to planning outreach efforts in a timely fashion so that monies are spent carefully and the budget is spread over the entire fiscal year.
Do Expect Fluctuations in the Outreach Ministry
When planning activities, outreach leaders must consider community and school conflicts that will compete for family involvement. In addition to a normally hectic schedule, summer months, as well as spring break from school, provide a time for many families to spend time together. Expect limited involvement during these times.
Do Provide Information on a Timely Basis
Events that are scheduled at the beginning of the church year should be promoted throughout the year. Information regarding upcoming events should be provided to members in plenty of time for their own personal planning. Outreach is not the only aspect of members’ schedule.
Do Not List
Do Not Calendar Too Many Activities in One Month
Use caution when planning major outreach events for months already bombarded with scheduled events (i.e., December). Perhaps the emphasis for these months could be in letter/card contacts.
Do Not Overlook Even the Smallest Efforts
Recognize church members who participate in any element of outreach. Make sure everyone knows that outreach is more than door-to-door visitation. While personal visitation is an important part of the outreach ministry, it is only one part. The well-organized outreach program includes the gifts and talents of all members.
Do Not Fail to Provide Encouragement
Be creative in the methods of encouragement given. By placing simple, handwritten notes with, “Thank you for your hard work,” on the teacher’s podium, you have shown appreciation.
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