Have U Thanked a Volunteer Lately? No really...

I am constantly amazed when i think about the number of volunteers that put in time, effort and energy around Southland. It particularly struck me this past weekend as i walked around and noticed how many volunteers were serving all over the church so that "guests" would have an excellent and memorable experience here for Easter.

There were volunteers doing the following things (and these are just the ones that i saw): helping with our Production Team, serving in the Children's Ministry areas, counting the offering, preparing and serving communion, greeting guests, parking cars, praying with people to make decisions, singing on stage, playing in the band, serving food & drinks in the Cafe, teaching classes, answering questions about the church, helping guests find a seat, offering their expertise as a medical volunteer. And again these are just the things that i saw which does not include our mentoring program, the backpack food program, the medical clinics, homeless outreach, etc. Wow, how amazing!

These volunteers are people that have a heart to give back and they do so not for recognition but because they feel a purpose in it. It comes natural for many of them. And the ones that venture out cautiously almost always come back saying it was well worth it.

Volunteerism is certainly an integral part of our culture here at Southland and i am so thankful and proud of that fact. Without these wonderful volunteers we would not be the same. It would be impossible to pull of the weekend services or the outreach that we are able to do because of them.

So take some time and give a heart-felt and genuine "Thank You" to a volunteer. And be specific -- tell them why you appreciate them. Let them know that you notice and appreciate what they do. It will be well worth it to you and them.