Nothing cools the heat of the summer like a dip in the pool or lake. Nothing refreshes you on the inside better than an ice cold slushy or freeze pop. And nothing satisfies your hunger after being out in the sun all day than a nice burger or hot dog on the grill! (Man, my mouth is watering as I type).
With summer in full swing, it is important to be intentional with what events you schedule in attempt to connect with students and make it easy for them to come to your youth service.
We are by no means experts, but I thought I would share a few things that we do over the summer to meet students on their level:
1. House Parties: This is exactly what it sounds like, a party at someone’s house. Students love to hang out where the crowd is at in the summer, so why not create your own crowd. It works best to find a house that has a pool or is on a lake. This is a great “non churchy” environment to invite unbelievers to that might not be down with Jesus yet, but will totally cannonball in your pool! Advertise the party and make sure you provide some food and you’re in for a hit! We usually charge $2-$3 per student to cover the food and supplies cost, but free always works the best if it is in your budget.
2. Slushies and Freeze Pops: Nothing makes a student happier than a freeze pop or slushy on a hot day. Try renting a slushy machine from a local vendor or go to Sam’s Club and buy freeze pops in the bulk and give them out before and/or after service. Students will love it!
3. Grill Meat When You Can: Students go crazy over hamburgers and hotdogs! If you are able to, provide grilled food at your summer events or house parties. Find a faithful volunteer or two who love to grill and turn them loose to be “lean, mean, grilling machines.” (Raising your own cattle or pigs might me cost effective too…just kidding…but seriously.)
These are not the only things you can do in the summer, but give one or two of them a try and watch students have a blast!
Eric
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