Volunteer appreciation isn’t a bonus—it’s essential. At its core, it’s about making sure the people serving on your team feel seen, valued, and genuinely appreciated. In our ministry, appreciation is a big deal. We want our volunteers to be sick of us saying thank you. We want them to hear it so often that it becomes part of the culture—because they matter that much.

The reality is, not every church or ministry has the same budget or capacity. That’s where a simple but powerful mindset comes in: do for a few what you wish you could do for many. Until you can do something for everyone, start somewhere. Even the smallest acts of appreciation can leave a lasting impact.

Before you can appreciate your volunteers well, you need to know who they are. Some serve every week. Others show up once a month. Some jump in for special events, while others faithfully serve behind the scenes or even from home. It’s easy to overlook those who don’t fit neatly into a Sunday morning role—but their contribution matters just as much.

Go Small

Sometimes the most meaningful appreciation is also the simplest.

Saying “thank you” sounds obvious, but in the busyness of a Sunday or midweek program, it’s easy to rush past it. Slow down. Make eye contact. Say their name. Let them know you noticed them and the way they served.

Another simple practice is sending a random text during the week. Set a reminder on your phone and send a quick message thanking a volunteer for investing in kids or being part of your team. Keeping a running list of volunteers can help ensure no one gets overlooked.

Valuing volunteers also means valuing their opinions. Ask for feedback—what’s going well and what could be improved. Remember, feedback isn’t a personal attack. You and your volunteers share the same goal: helping kids grow in their faith and know Jesus. When possible, implement their ideas and celebrate the progress together.

Dreaming together is another powerful way to show appreciation. We call it “blue sky dreaming”—asking questions like, “If money were no object and failure wasn’t possible, what would you love to see in this ministry?” Writing those ideas down and revisiting them later communicates something important: your voice matters here.

Go Big

As you’re able, look for ways to take appreciation a step further.

Birthday cards, handwritten notes, and recognizing milestones—like graduations or serving anniversaries—help volunteers feel known as people, not just positions to fill. A simple note after a hard Sunday or an extra service can be incredibly encouraging.

Practical gestures go a long way too. Snacks in a volunteer room, a shared calendar that tracks birthdays and anniversaries, or even a small gift like a local restaurant coupon can say, “We see you.”

For those volunteers who consistently go above and beyond, consider something more personal—meals, gift cards, or even a coffee or lunch date. These moments aren’t about asking for more help; they’re about building relationships and showing care beyond the walls of the church.

Go Bigger (Together)

Larger appreciation efforts create shared experiences that strengthen your team culture. Volunteer appreciation events, special dinners, themed nights, or fun outings can build connection and create lasting memories.

And remember—you don’t have to do it alone. Invite others to help plan, host, or prepare. When appreciation becomes a shared effort, it multiplies its impact.

When volunteers feel appreciated, they don’t just serve longer—they serve with joy. And a joyful, valued team doesn’t just bless your ministry—it shapes the lives of the kids and families you serve in ways that echo into eternity.

Megan Pullen is the Early Childhood Pastor at Journey Community Church in Evans, Georgia, where she brings 17 years of ministry experience and a passion for helping kids and families know Jesus with fun and creativity. When she’s not hanging out with 100 of her favorite preschool friends, she’s enjoying life with her husband on their 10-acre farm near Thomson, GA.