Top Ten Holiday Volunteer Appreciation Gift Ideas

From Church Volunteer Daily

December 15, 2010 | Written by Sue Brage Permalink

10. Supplies - often teachers and leaders can use some fresh supplies for their rooms or to use with their teams. Show them you care by meeting those needs this Christmas.

9. Laughter - share a funny holiday story or video with your volunteers. Be sure to tell them you are sending the gift of a smile in appreciation for all they do.

8. Meal - prepare a large pot of soup or spaghetti sauce. Divide and deliver to each volunteer along with a lovely Christmas card and perhaps a nice loaf or bread or small plate of cookies for dessert.

7. Photos - arrange for a photographer (ideally, a church member willing to donate their services) to photograph your volunteers and their families in a pretty spot near the Christmas tree. Make the digital files available as your gift to them.

6. Stress-relief - find a masseuse with a chair who would be willing to come and set up at your staff meeting or Christmas party.

5. Fun - buy a fun, family game, DVD, or even a gift certificate (bowling, anyone?) that they can share with their families. Or better yet, rent a few lanes at the bowling alley and invite your volunteers to come for a family fun night on you!

4. Prayer - take time to pray for each of your volunteers and their families. Take time to share what you felt during that prayer time or a special verse that came to mind for them.

3. Spiritual Encouragement - is there a book your pastor has recommended recently? Purchase a copy for each of your key volunteers. Remind them that their spiritual growth is important to you.

2. Parents Day Out - provide free child care on a weeknight or Saturday morning for your volunteers. Give them the chance to get some shopping done or just rest during the busy holiday season. (This could be arranged at the church or in someone's home, depending on how many volunteers you have.)

1. Time - arrange a substitute, give them a Sunday off, or even fill in yourself, and let your valued volunteer have a break from their normal serving time.