I admit, I'm a numbers guy. It's my "Input" and "Context" strengths at work. Since my election to the board, I along with like-talented members (thank you Kathy Frost) have put them to work gathering information about member volunteer involvement. The data has confirmed some anecdotal suspicions but also revealed some interesting new insights.

 

First, the data confirm what is often typical in congregations: that is,
that a relatively few number of members do most of the volunteer work.  In 2016, about 5% of our 671 active members (youth included) were engaged in greater than or equal to 6 ministries/committees (for instance, greeter >3 times, member of a committee, faith formation leader...etc). Of this 5% volunteer number, 72% of them were women (c'mon guys, we can do better!). About 12% were engaged in greater than or equal to 3 ministries. The "Responsibility" strength seems to run strong in this group and we could not exist without them. Thank you! But a shadow of the Responsibility strength is that they can often over commit and so burnout is a concern.

 

As much as this data communicated a challenge for us as a congregation to do better, some hopeful information also came to light. Specifically, over 400 members (equivalent of 61% of the active congregation) do more than just attend worship and are involved in at least one other activity or ministry. This communicated to us that there may be some untapped volunteer potential and leaders who may be looking for additional opportunities.

 

This is why the board has been so eager to hear from you with the Time and Talent Survey. Not only are we looking to see boxes checked off of activities you currently do or would like to do, but also we are eager to learn more about your strengths, professional/educational training, and whether you have any capacity to do more or whether you need to pull back and refocus on other priorities. We've received approximately 72 responses thus far (an 11% response rate). Thank you to those who have filled out the survey. If you haven't filled out the survey, it's not too late and here's another opportunity - click here . The various committee leads, board members, pastor and staff will be reviewing your information in the days and weeks to come and may be in touch with you. Or, if the Spirit moves you, please reach out to any board member or  staff with ideas or interests.

 

May the "Go and Do" Stewardship theme summon the "Activator" strength in all of us!

 

In Christ,

 

Ray Valley

Church Board President