Youth Ministry Volunteers

 Our Vision: Youth Ministry Vision: 50 to Forever

Why Volunteer Participation is Essential

• Share Your Gifts: Use your unique skills and experiences to enrich our youth ministry.
• Build Relationships: Form meaningful connections with youth and other parishioners.
• Grow in Faith: Deepen your own faith as you help guide others on their spiritual journey.
• Make an Impact: Play a vital role in shaping the future of our parish community.

Volunteer Expectations

• Quarterly Planning Sessions: Participate in one major planning session each quarter, which may be held in person or through online meeting tools.
• Monthly Check-Ins: Attend short, regular in-person meetings or video calls to adjust plans, discuss progress, and share insights. These check-ins help keep our efforts aligned and effective.
• Team Collaboration: Engage in regular meetings with the adult volunteer team, youth peer leaders, and program coordinators to ensure smooth planning and execution of the program.

Monthly Structure for Volunteers

• Timing: Sunday Evenings (Monthly)
• Activities:
  • Engage in worship with contemporary music.
  • Help organize and facilitate workshops tailored for high schoolers, middle schoolers, and parents.
  • Assist with dinner and social time to foster community.

• Timing: Sunday Mornings (Monthly)
• Activities:
  • Lead or assist in small group discussions focused on deeper faith exploration.
  • Support youth in personal faith development through interactive sessions.

• Timing: Once a Month (Flexible Timing)
• Activities:
  • Participate in or help organize parish activities, service projects, or physical activities.
  • Encourage youth and families to engage with the broader parish community.

Potential Roles for Volunteers

• Assist with the music and prayer aspects of worship sessions.
• Create a welcoming atmosphere for participants.

• Lead or assist with workshops for different age groups.
• Prepare materials, facilitate discussions, and engage participants in activities.

• Guide small group discussions, helping youth to explore their faith more deeply.
• Foster a safe space for sharing and growth.

• Plan and organize Community Day events or special projects.
• Coordinate logistics, volunteer assignments, and materials.

• Help with meal planning, setup, and serving during Worship & Workshops.
• Ensure a welcoming environment for youth and families.

• Guide youth in planning and executing service projects.
• Mentor them in understanding the importance of service in their faith journey.

• Assist in keeping parents and volunteers informed through newsletters, emails, and social media.
• Help manage sign-ups and volunteer schedules.

Call to Action

1. Volunteer Application:
   • Obtain the diocesan-provided volunteer application form.
   • Complete the application form accurately and thoroughly.
   • Sign and date the application, indicating your agreement to adhere to the code of conduct and policies.
   • Submit the completed application to the appropriate designated contact.
   • Communicate any additional requirements or documents needed.
   • Provide three references that are not family on the volunteer application.
2. Safe Environment Training:
   • Collaborate with your parish or organization to enroll in the approved Safe Environment training program.
   • Complete the required Safe Environment training every 5 years.
   • Understand the importance of promoting the safety, well-being, and dignity of youth and children.
   • Renew certifications in a timely manner.
   • Stay updated with current guidelines and best practices.
   • Foster vigilance and accountability, recognizing signs of misconduct and understanding proper reporting procedures.
   • All safe environment requirements must be met to volunteer. The Diocese will conduct audits to ensure all parishes are in compliance.
3. Sexual Harassment and Online Safety Training:
   • Access the prescribed online program approved by the diocese, covering identification and prevention of sexual harassment.
   • Complete the annual Sexual Harassment training program to preserve youth well-being, dignity, and safety.
   • Provide proof of completion as required.
   • Sexual Harassment must be completed annually.
4. Social Media Safety Training:
   • Complete the prescribed Social Media safety training.
   • Emphasize responsible online behavior when interacting with youth.
   • Provide proof of completion.

5. Background Checks:
   • Undergo background checks every five years, as mandated by the diocese, to prioritize the safety and well-being of youth and children.
   • Stay informed about updates or changes to the background check process communicated by the diocese.