National Youth Sunday > Planning > Gathering a group
The next thing to do is to gather a group of helpers. Even if you only have 2-3 young people in your group you need to have two adults at your sessions, in case of emergencies. It’s also much more fun to work on the planning if you’re not on your own and can bounce ideas off other people. The best ways of getting volunteers that we have found is:
1. Speak at the Masses in your parish over a weekend, and stay around to chat if there’s coffee afterwards. Be really specific that this is only for four sessions and one Mass. You may find that people who are usually too busy can volunteer for a short period of time.
2. Personal invitation. Think of a list of specific jobs that you’ll need doing, and ask around. You may find that someone who would never stand up in front of a group would help put chairs out and do the refreshments.
3. Don’t forget young leaders. You might find keen young people among your servers, musicians or young readers. They might have come through the parish confirmation programme in the past. The key thing is that they are enthusiastic about their faith. Involving them in the planning of your group will keep it focused on the young people, and will help to keep sessions accessible.
We have found in the past that putting a notice in the newsletter isn’t usually very effective. A personal approach is much better.
When you have a list of volunteers together, go back to your safeguarding rep and talk it over with them.