For Student Leaders in CBOQ Churches
- Pray and Discern the Vision
Start with prayer and reflection. Ask:
- What are the needs in our community?
- How can we reflect Christ’s love through this event?
- Who is God calling us to serve?
- How does this align with the mandate God has given our church?
It is imperative that you discuss your idea and plan with your church leadership for their feedback and hopefully endorsement.
Scripture Inspiration: Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light shine before others…”
- Form a Planning Team
Gather a small team of youth and adult mentors. Assign roles (here are some suggestions):
- Event Coordinator (you!)
- Prayer Lead
- Promotion/Media Lead
- Logistics Lead
- Hospitality/Facility Lead
Tip: Include diverse voices—different ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
- Choose the Type of Outreach
Pick an event that fits your community’s needs and your team’s capacity. Ideas:
- Free BBQ or Block Party
- Clothing or Food Drive
- Homework Help or Tutoring Night
- Community Clean-Up
- Youth Sports or Games Day
- Mental Health Awareness Workshop
- Community Partnership (e.g. local/professional sports team, theatre group, etc.)
- Plan the Details
Use the “5 Ws”:
- Who is the target audience?
- What will happen at the event?
- When will it take place?
- Where will it be held?
- Why are you doing this?
Logistics Checklist:
- Budget
- List all expenses (e.g. rental costs, honorariums, travel expenses, etc.)
- List all revenue sources (e.g. ticket sales, church funds, potential grants like CBOQ micro grants)
Permits (if using public space)
- If using a facility that’s not your church building, ensure you take a facility tour to understand the logistics and safety requirements.
- Supplies (tables, chairs, food, games, etc.)
- Volunteers (recruit and train)
- Safety (first aid, emergency contacts, communicable disease protocols if needed)
- Communication devices
- Registration procedure
- Ensure you are following all applicable church policies.
- E.g. If this is an event for minors, ensuring all volunteers are screened through your church’s child safety policy.
- Ensure all participants complete the appropriate consent forms (e.g. media release).
- Project management details (e.g. timeline, milestone markers i.e. key deadlines, responsibilities per role)
- Consider what is the next step that this experience can lead to for participants.
- Determine your Communication Channels
Use multiple channels (consider who you’re trying to reach and what platforms they best receive information):
- Church announcements and bulletins
- Social media (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)
- Flyers in local schools, libraries, and cafes
- Word of mouth
Tip: Create a catchy name and simple tagline (e.g., “Shine Day: Serving Our Neighbours with Love”).
- Prepare Spiritually and Practically
- Invite church members and other friends to regularly pray for this opportunity
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- Host a team prayer meeting before the event.
- Go over roles and expectations.
- Prepare a short devotional or testimony to share if appropriate.
Encourage your team to be present, kind, and open to conversations.
- Host the Event
- Arrive early and set up.
- Welcome guests warmly.
- Be flexible and ready to adapt.
- Take photos (with permission) for future promotion.
- Have a prayer team available quietly in the background.
Tip: Wear matching shirts or badges to be easily identifiable.
- Follow Up
- Thank volunteers and attendees.
- Share highlights on social media or during a church service.
- Reflect with your team: What went well? What could improve?
- Consider follow-up events or ongoing outreach.
Optional: Collect contact info (with consent) for future invites.
- Celebrate and Give Thanks
- Host a debrief party or prayer night.
- Celebrate what God did through your efforts.
- Encourage testimonies from team members or attendees.
Remember: Success isn’t just numbers—it’s faithfulness and love in action.