The more I speak with youth workers the greater the need I see for them to connect with others like themselves. Frankly, I'm surprised at how unconnected many of them are. Youth ministry is done in the context of relationships. Youth workers need one another — Networks work! (Connect to excerpt from Doug's talk at the Simply Youth Ministry Conference, 2009)
Here are nine reasons I believe youth workers should regularly connect with other youth workers:
- A network is a place to combine resources
When you're connected with others you can share resources. Practically, this saves you valuable time and money and makes you a relational steward.
- A network provides a "culture of safety"
One of the reason I love meeting with other youth workers is because I feel safe. I feel understood. I feel known. This is a result from meeting with those who know what I do and what I'm usually feeling or going through.
- A network allows us to learn from others
Every time I gather with youth workers I'm amazed at how much I learn by simply listening to their stories about church, parents, teenagers, volunteers, etc. Other people's life experiences are a classroom for those willing to learn.
- A network can be an "ideas factory"
I love hearing what other youth workers are doing. When we share ideas, it's so much easier to "steal" with permission! My favorite network gatherings were when we would show up every month and share copies of all we had done during the month.
- A network provides free counseling and consulting
This one is HUGE! So many of the questions that I receive to answer on our Simply Youth Ministry podcast could be better answered if they were asked within the community of other youth workers. Veteran youth workers are really sharp people and can aid with personal and strategic questions.
- A network expresses the diversity within the body of Christ
One of the many elements that I enjoy about meeting with other youth workers is the theological melting pot that shows up. If you choose to meet with people in your own denomination, great! But when you gather with people who are theologically diverse (though unified on the essentials important to you), I find we have much to offer each other.
- A network allows you to be community-oriented
I love it when networks pull off events for either the local community or the faith community. It's so great to see youth groups doing things they probably couldn't do on their own, yet find the ability to do because of the connections within their network.
- A network models non-competitive church relationships
Teenagers need to see that youth groups and youth leaders are willing to work together to accomplish things for the bigger picture. The youth group down the street isn't the enemy-the Enemy is the enemy-we need to model that reality.
- A network provides genuine fun and friendships
Networks that meet consistently and for long periods of time become the foundation for great long-term relationships. I've experienced this personally and I've seen a depth of friendships forming across the country from those who said "yes" to a network gathering.
Bottom line: As youth workers we are "better together"! If you're not currently connected with a group of youth workers, PLEASE click here and begin searching for one near you.
Editor's Note: This article is a reprint from Doug Fields' blog at www.dougfields.com. Used by permission.