Each of us have our own mix of motivational needs.

How easy is it to give meaningful recognition to ministry volunteers? This is a kind of ‘no win’ question for those in leadership, isn’t it? There are as many ways to ‘recognize’ as there are volunteers. And yet we often do it so poorly.

A medal for everyone?

I once came across an Australian group known as OzVPM that decided to award a national medal to all volunteers in Australia after a set number of years of service, regardless of what was done or what position was held. Noteworthy, perhaps, yet while longevity in volunteerism may be an important criterion, it should not be the only one and certainly not the primary one.

We’re all different

For some, a medal or a certificate is just the ticket for recognition. I recall a deacon in our first pastorate who proudly wore on his chest a long cluster of ‘faithfulness award’ medals acknowledging perfect SS attendance. Rotarians who become Paul Harris Fellows receive a special certificate, a gold pin, and a gold medallion on a blue-and-gold ribbon.

Each of us has our own mix of motivational needs. Valuable recognition takes this into account when looking for the best way of saying “thank you.” Remember that recognition only has value if it is underpinned by an informal, day-to-day appreciation of the person and the contribution they make.

It’s more than just showing up

In servant ministry, perhaps longevity is not as important as what impact the individual has had in that time. Isn’t it more meaningful if we can say, “Thank you for making THIS difference in the life of THAT person or THOSE persons” than “Thank you for sticking with us for five years?”

I get my shoes shined at a stand near my home. There I discovered these working men are Christians. One plays the organ in his church. The other, a Seventh Day Adventist, mentors young people in his church and neighborhood. These men may not have many medals on their chests, but they deserve recognition and I try to give them mine each time I see them.

Olympic athletes don’t get medals for practicing or just showing up. They have to win, or at least place high enough for their accomplishment to be noticed.

It’s a great idea to elevate volunteers to public hero status, but whatever the ‘medal’ looks like, let’s be certain it affirms them and their contribution genuinely.

What do you think?

What has been your experience with ‘recognition?’ What is the most satisfying recognition you ever received? What do you think is the best way to recognize servant ministry success?

“I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived…they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.”                                                 

—The Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 16:17-19)