You know summer events like service projects, mission trips, camps, and other events are vital for teenagers’ faith formation. But students and adults are busier than ever, and it can feel disheartening to pour effort into planning an event only to have two students show up—who leave early because their friends aren’t there.

Worse yet, a poorly attended event could create a domino effect, leading to declining participation in future events.

We understand this struggle. Over the last 30+ years, we’ve connected nearly a million teenagers to mission trips. Based on that experience, we’ve compiled practical ideas to help spark your imagination and rally your group.

How to Get Youth On Board for Summer Events

In an ideal world, you’d announce an event, post about it on Instagram, and immediately have a full sign-up sheet. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple. The following strategies can help you generate excitement and encourage students to commit to your events.

1. Start Early

Students’ summer calendars fill up fast with sports, camps, and other commitments. Share information about your event as soon as possible to ensure it’s on their radar.

2. Persuade Parents

Parents have a huge influence on their teens’ decisions. Communicate directly with parents about the event, emphasizing its purpose, safety, and leadership. Don’t assume students will relay the details—reach out to parents with clear, compelling messages.

3. Promote Creatively

• Incorporate Throughout the Year: Use Bible studies or small group discussions to introduce themes tied to the event. For example, if it’s a mission trip, focus on the value of serving others.
• Share Stories: Highlight impactful stories from past events. Invite students who have participated before to share their experiences.
• Cast Vision: Look ahead and paint a compelling picture of what the event could achieve for the group and individuals.
• Use Visuals: Incorporate photos, videos, or promotional materials to make your advertising stand out.
• Go In-Person: Face-to-face invitations are powerful. Personally invite students and give them something tangible, like a flyer or digital reminder.
• Leverage Peer Relationships: Recruit student leaders to help promote the event and encourage their peers to join.

Tricks of the Trade for Recruiting for Summer Events

1. Set Deadlines

Deadlines encourage timely sign-ups. While you can keep a flexible internal deadline, a firm public deadline provides accountability and urgency.

2. Offer Incentives

Motivate early sign-ups with fun rewards like picking their seat on the van, controlling the playlist, or getting a free t-shirt. Tailor incentives to what will excite your group.

3. Avoid Blank Sign-Up Sheets

Students are less likely to sign up if no one else has. Ask a few students to commit before making the sign-up sheet public. Better yet, use an online form to streamline the process.

Recruiting Adult Leaders

Adult leaders are crucial for the success of your events. Here’s how to recruit quality leaders who will enhance your students’ experience.

What to Look For

Seek leaders who are:

• Safe: Non-negotiable. Trustworthy leaders prioritize safety above all else.
• An Example: Adults who model Christ-like behavior and are worth following.
• Responsible: Leaders who can stay organized, keep track of students, and follow directions.
• Relational: Adults who naturally connect with students and foster community.
• Known: People already involved in students’ lives.
• Flexible: Adaptable to the surprises that come with youth ministry.
• Committed: Leaders who align with your vision and are willing to follow through.

Where to Look

• Current youth staff and volunteers
• Church staff, parents, and congregation members
• Former students (over age 20)
• Students’ recommendations

How to Ask

• Invite Personally: Individual invitations are more effective than general announcements.
• Give Deadlines: Allow time for leaders to consider the opportunity but provide a follow-up date.
• Cover Costs: Paying for leaders communicates their value and shows appreciation for their time.

Trust the Process

Despite your best efforts, some factors—like unexpected illnesses or schedule changes—are out of your control. Pray for guidance and trust that God will work through your events, no matter the turnout.

With these strategies, you can inspire excitement, build momentum, and create meaningful summer experiences for your students and leaders.

Looking for a summer experience for your youth ministry? Check out a trip with YouthWorks.