Vacation Bible School, youth camps, mission trips, community outreach events, and children's programs often rely heavily on volunteers and for good reason. They are one of the greatest blessings in ministry. But while volunteers aren't employees, that doesn't mean churches can afford to overlook policies, procedures, and risk management.

In fact, summer is one of the most important times of year to review them.

Before your next event, consider these questions:

✔️ Have volunteers been properly screened for roles involving children or youth?

✔️ Do volunteers understand your church's child protection policies?

✔️ Has your church established clear expectations and boundaries for volunteers?

✔️ Do volunteers know who to contact if an incident occurs?

✔️ Are background checks required for applicable positions?

✔️ Has your church reviewed emergency procedures for summer events and activities?

Many churches assume that because someone is volunteering, formal processes aren't necessary. Unfortunately, that's often when gaps appear.

Strong volunteer systems aren't about distrust, they're about stewardship. They help protect children, families, volunteers, church leaders, and the ministry itself.

As you prepare for Vacation Bible School, camps, outreach events, and other summer activities, I encourage you to take a fresh look at your volunteer policies and procedures. You don't need dozens of complicated policies, but you do need clear expectations, consistent processes, and leaders who understand how to implement them.

A little preparation now can prevent significant challenges later.

We'd love to hear from you.

Is your church reviewing volunteer policies, child protection procedures, or volunteer screening practices this summer? Are there questions your leadership team has been wrestling with?

Simply reply to this email and let us know. Our team reads every response, and we'd be happy to learn more about how we can support your church and the ministries you lead.

Save the Date September 17th & 18th 2026

The 19th Annual Church Law & Leadership Summit is coming this fall, and we'll be covering many of the topics church leaders are asking about right now—including volunteer management, child protection policies, governance, bylaws, employment issues, risk management, and much more.

Early-bird registration opens on June 25, and we'll be sharing more details soon.

Blessings!

P.S. I was recently honored to be featured in Voyage Baltimore Magazine and share more about my journey, The Church Attorney®, and my passion for serving churches. If you'd like to read the interview, you can do so here: