In the latest issue of Children's Ministry Magazine , Adam Day has a terrific article entitled "Sell the Sizzle". He lists 20 techniques that children's ministers can incorporate into their ministries to add sizzle and cause potential volunteers to hunger to be involved. If these work for the entire children's ministry, maybe we could apply them to Vacation Bible School in specific. None of us would mind having a throng of people begging to decorate hallways, teach 4-year-olds, or run relays during recreation! Here are a few of Adam's ideas that I applied to make VBS not only more inviting for volunteers, but also to children and families that will attend.

#1
Create Great Programs - Many that are reading this would classify themselves as VBS nuts, so creating a great VBS is already THE priority. There are some leaders that look at VBS as an extended daycare without much spiritual purpose or strength. If you're going to do a VBS, make it awesome. Choose a great curriculum with a great theme. If you need some help, check out our Comparison Chart and Publisher Report Card . Recruiting new leaders and volunteers will be much easier when they see the quality and excitement that surrounds your VBS 2008.

#2
Get Web Savvy - If your church or children's ministry already has a web site, create a section just for your VBS. A well-done web site not only can demonstrate a high-quality image,it canalso be extremelyinformative and functional. You can communicate with leaders and parents through your web site and/or email. Also, offer online registration through your web site. LifeWay and Gospel Light are among publishers that offer personalized VBS web sites for very reasonable annual fees. If you'd like to create your own, try WebsiteSource.com . I currently host web sites with them and have foundthem to bevery inexpensive and provide great customer service.

#3
Become a Promoter - Start promoting VBS early! Most churches wait until after Christmas & New Years to start pumping VBS. Consider sending out an email, newsletter, or mail piece in the fall as a teaser for the following year's VBS. You'll excite your people and potential volunteers about your cool theme, plus demonstrate your amazing passion and commitment to VBS by promoting it eight or nine months out!Help others catch your excitement.

Remember, hosting a quality Vacation Bible School honors God, your attendees, and your leaders. God will bless your commitment to excellence in serving Him!