I was recently traveling with some youth and we were talking about our youth program. Things seem to be going pretty well so I asked them why? What is it about the youth program that keeps youth coming back. We discussed several things, but one was this.
“You don’t waste our time.”
We live in a time where youth are overbooked, hyper-driven and worn out. Between school, family, friends, extra-curricular activities, club sports, dance, and homework, they do not have many extra hours in their week. If they show up to youth, and it is at best organized chaos, if you are not prepared, if you are pulling together what you are doing, as they are arriving, that may be the last time they come.
I am not the most naturally organized person, but you can bet it is one thing I try hard at. When they youth walk in the door I want them to know that I have prepared whatever we are doing that night just for them. I want it to be evident that I am glad they are here, and that this is not a waste of their time.
What are some ways that you make your programs intentional?
Do you think this is important?
Photo used under Creative Commons flickr.com/photos/wbob/