Powerful Invitations – Volunteers & Beyond

This Great Idea comes from a training by Elizabeth Andress, co-facilitator of the ELCA’s Truth Seeking and Truth-Telling Initiative on Indian Boarding Schools.

Elizabeth led a one-hour training two weeks ago with the following outline [(c) July 2026, Elizabeth Andress, ELCA Truth Seeking & Truth Telling Initiative on Indian Boarding Schools]:

  • Getting the word out vs. getting the people in
    • publicizing & promoting vs. ‘deliberate personal invitations’
  • Setting and reaching goals
    • clarity on participation:
      • how many?
      • who?
      • timeline?
  • Invitations are all about relationship
    • one-on-ones are essential!!
  • A powerful invitation is:
    • prepared
    • relational
    • offer opportunity
    • in person
    • asks for a clear response
  • A powerful invitation does not
    • focus on ‘our need’
    • create ambiguity
  • Elements of a powerful invitation
    • clarity
    • your personal excitement
    • understanding of their interests
    • listening
  • Requests for a clear response – and how to follow-up

How are you feeling about recruiting leaders and volunteers?

The Ministry Lab may follow this up with a webinar led by Elizabeth. If interested, please let me know!