They’ve given sweat equity in your ministry all summer…from hanging around after the lock-in so you could go home to pinch-hitting on that Wednesday night lesson because one of your children had appendicitis to finding a permanent home for all those camp supplies you stole from the children’s ministry…and making it look like they were never touched….
Your summer interns have served well (hopefully). Say good-bye well….here are a few tips:
1. Do an exit interview – and pour into them the encouragement of a job well done and the challenge of areas that need sharpening.
2. Recognize that you can learn, as well. Ask them to provide insight on how you can improve as a leader. And then be willing to take your lumps and be humble.
3. Provide them with a reference letter…in fact, do this first so conversations one or two have no bearing on what you write.
4. Allow your students to say good-bye. Provide a party or a small segment during regular programming for appreciation.
5. Give them a gift. Consider a surprise honorarium if the budget allows (especially if your interns are unpaid) or give them a gift card or a ministry resource.
Interns are a great resource to you and your church – appreciate their service and honor the gifts God has given them.
Everyone's Called to Youth Ministry 