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Question for the Community: Outreach

by Seth Bartlette
Tuesday, September 04, 2012
All, Blog
5 comments

We’re counting on you to help us answer this question from a fellow youth-worker:

I am seeking the experience of others in youth ministry concerning outreach. Do you think visiting prospects works well in youth ministry?

Time to weigh in with your thoughts, YMG Team. Help Nicole by commenting below. Thanks!

Tags:Question for the Community

5 comments

1
Suzie RalphThursday, September 13, 2012 3:58 PM
I was going to wait and see how people responded so I could see what you mean.. but since it's been several days.. I think I'll just allow my lack of knowledge to show through. What do you mean by "visiting prospects?" Sorry if you have to roll your eyes and explain in simple terms to me. But I have no idea what you mean by that so I'm not sure if it works well in YM or not.
2
JustinThursday, September 13, 2012 5:02 PM
In the area I am in, home visits with a teen just creates awkward situations (or maybe it is just me). What has worked for me the most is going to sporting events (or whatever school event that your teens go to) and hanging out with the teens from our group that are there and meeting their friends in that context.
3
Andy lawrensonThursday, September 13, 2012 6:35 PM
Ditto what Justin said. In our community if you aren't invited you don't just drop in.
4
ByronSunday, September 16, 2012 11:01 PM
I'm with Justin on this one. In my limited experience, I've found that going into their world, whether it be a sporting event or some other activity works really well. It is a great way connect with the students, but it is also a great way to connect with the parents. I've had some great convos with parents during and after games. I'd highly recommend it.
5
SuzieThursday, September 20, 2012 1:53 PM
Wow... as I re-read it in context to your comments I totally get the question now.. blonde moment I guess. Showing up at a students house would not go over well in my community unless I was invited. It feels too "door to, door/preachy" It would turn people away. You are asking this as an outreach question and not building relationships with current students so... I would say one of the best things that has worked for us is to show up where the students are (extra curricular) and do what we call "bridge events" fun things that a student who doesn't go to church would want to go to. From there we often have people start coming to church, this works both for youth and adults in our church.