Encourage Parents! We need Leaders and Helpers!

All parents, (IBC members or non-members), teenagers (LIT-Leaders In Training), are encouraged to serve in one of the fastest growing children's ministries in the country.

Who We Are, What We Do

Awana is a nondenominational ministry that assists churches in reaching children and teenagers with the gospel of Jesus Christ and training them to serve Him. Awana supports programs, materials and training for more than 12,000 churches in over 110 countries. The acronym AWANA - Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed (2 Timothy 2:15).

Leadership Qualifications

You must be a member of Ironbridge Baptist and attend Awana Basic Training leadership training coarse to be a "Certified Leader". All leaders are to maintain and conduct themselves through biblical standards. (The Pastor or Commander will exercise biblical discipline if these standards are not met) Awana Leadership training locations, dates and times are posted on the Awana bulletin board. IBC Helpers and non-member Leaders/Helpers are also encouraged to attend Awana Basic Training leadership training course.

Leaders

Leader's service time is mid September until mid May commitment. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes before club starts. Ensure a safe environment; spiritually, mentally, and physically. Your assigned clubbers will look for your guidance and wisdom. When a clubber has missed a night of club a phone call, e-mail, post card or a home visit will encourage and show that you care about them. Take leadership role in Council Time by occasionally preparing a Bible lesson. Take leadership role during Handbook Time by making certain all clubbers in your room received help with their handbook. Take leadership role during Game Time by lining up clubbers and ensure a Helper is at each of the four game colors. Exercise the 5-count and the 3-count when needed. Report any behavior problems to the Director first then if necessary the Commander.

Leaders, helpers, and listeners should try to build a relationship with their assigned clubbers. You may be the only Jesus they will ever meet. A weekly phone call to your clubber will build a stronger relationship not only with the clubber but with the parents as well. Leaders should make a contact (phone call, home visit, or note card) when clubbers begin to show a pattern of absenteeism. To continue reinforcing the relationship with your clubber, leaders will remain with clubbers at Game Time and Council Time.

Helpers

Helpers are exactly that. They have volunteered to provide help with crowd control (acceptable behavior), game time, crafts, music, and whatever gift they are willing to offer.

Helper Duties and Committments

Helpers should be consistent to their commitment. Arrive 15 minutes before club starts. Inspect the room before club begins and return the room the way you found it. Ensure a safe environment; spiritually, mentally, and physically. Maintain order during Council Time (preparing a Bible lesson is optional). Help out by lining up clubbers during Game Time and assist the Leaders at the four game colors. Take leadership role during Handbook Time by making certain all clubbers in your room received help with their handbook

Listeners

Listeners are exactly that. They have volunteered to listen to the clubbers verses understanding the guidelines.

See our section on How to Be a Good Listener for more information.