The purpose of STAR Power is to address how we as leaders, pastors, etc. can motivate volunteers. STAR Power is a repackaged product from one of my Seminary courses on Christian leadership. I felt this information should not be left within the files of my computer, but shared with the Body of Christ.

Within my own ministry settings, the subject of motivating volunteers is almost non-existent.

So many churches are looking for volunteers, but how many are striving to keep them motivated? I'm sure each of you knows at least 10 people (right now) that are stressed and burned out in ministry...with little or no motivation in sight.

As I began my research, I conducted a search on Borders Books' website. I entered a search for 'motivating volunteers' and only received a listing of five books - three of which are out of print. I also entered a search for 'encouraging volunteers' and received two books - one out of print. Yet when I conducted a search for 'volunteers' I received 833 results.

It has been hard for me to fathom how few resources we have for motivating volunteers when they are critical to the church's mission for Christ. In many ways, I have been a part of this cycle and it has been my desire to learn more about this subject in order to share it with others.

Throughout my research, I found a hodge-podge of sections, paragraphs, and statements mentioning various problems and suggestions for motivating volunteers. I found four recurring 'themes' in the course of my research: a lack of support, training, appreciation, and the need for rest (or restoration).

I do not believe neglecting and abusing volunteers display any qualities of Christian love. If we are called to love others, why would we treat our volunteers in the trenches so poorly?! Volunteers are not the means to the end. Ministering to volunteers is just as important!

Volunteers are a key asset for churches to fulfill their mission in Christ, yet many churches run their volunteers into the ground. It is my prayer that through Support, Training, Appreciation, and Restoration (STAR Power), leaders may be able to support and motivate volunteers to function effectively within various programs, ministries, and churches.