For many people there is no more exciting and renewing way of serving the congregation and the future than ministry with our infants, toddlers, children and teens. Relationship with other Unitarian Universalist is a main means through which we all develop spiritually. Adults in relationship with children and teens are the core of our programming and faith development. You may be amazed at how much it contributes to your own spiritual growth. Below are some ways for you to be a part of our ministry with children and teens. There are many others, if you don't see what you want, describe it in the Volunteer Form and we will find the ministry that is right for you.
Regular Workshop Leader (either session, 4-6 hours per month) - Create workshops using your interests and talents for at least four months during the year.
* Attend preparation meeting on the 2nd Wednesday at 6pm the month before each of your workshop months. * At the meeting hear the story told by a storyteller and listen as Mark explores the story and the theme, reflecting on the meaning of the story for you, how it touches your life, and the meaning that the story might have for children. * With the assistance of a Curriculum Developer and using your skills, interests and talents, work out a basic workshop to be offered all the regular Sundays in the month you have chosen. * Consider our Seven Principles, the Big Questions, as well as the theme when working out your workshop. * Develop adaptation for various ages - 1st grade, 2nd and 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade. (or at 1st service 1st grade, 2nd and 3rd, and 4th and 5th) * Complete a form with the Curriculum Developer that includes information about supplies that you will need. * You will not need to take roll, do classroom control, or lead any other event in the classroom. The Guide, who knows the children well will take care of that. * Present the workshop all the regular Sundays in a calendar month at one session, although you may opt to do it during both services.
Guides (every week, no prep): Develop and support relationships in an elementary workshop group. Be present each week to introduce the workshop, build community and help children connect the workshop with the central theme for the month. Develop ties with both children and their parents. Communicate with family when children are absent.
Social Justice Sunday Leaders(Either session, 4 times per year) - Work with Justice Sunday Coordinator to provide interesting and challenging opportunities for elementary or youth to actively engage in social justice work and learning on Sunday mornings.
Snack Provider
Once per year, bring enough healthy snacks for 100 children; set up by 10:15 for first service and clean up at about 12:30.
Some Current Leadership/Coordinating Oppportunities (most don't require Sunday activity)...
Holidays Leader (two Sundays a year) - Coordinateall-ages (except for high school) observance of El Dia de los Muertos October 31st and Holi on May 1. With support of DRE design the programming and recruit the volunteers. Repitition is important to religious education. Repeating the basic plan from previous years and building on it is You may lead or recruit a leader for each holiday. Coordination and organizational experience needed. Experience working with large groups of children is optional.
CONcierge (3 times this year) - No Sunday participation required.
Alert teens to upcoming District Youth Conference (CONs)
Secure enough drivers and sponsors to for the number of youth attending. See that the proper forms are completed for drivers and sponsors
