A students@acf Volunteer is:

  • a discipler, a teacher, a mentor, and an encourager. It is our mission to take biblical truth and, in the context of relationships, impart that truth so as to encourage and guide students. These relationships are established through events, bible studies, small groups, service projects and personal contacts. You may be asking, "I don't know how to teach," or "I don't know much Bible," or "How do you disciple someone?" If you are a Christ follower we can train you to work with students.
  • a counselor. As you build relationships with students you will be reminded of much of the "junk" that you endured as a teenager. This gives you valuable experience in relating to where kids are and helping them break down what they may be going through. Resting on biblical principles, you will have the opportunity to minister to these students in their times of crisis and need.
  • a companion and a friend. The relationship is vital. Students value having people in their lives that they can trust - people who love and encourage them unconditionally. They are constantly getting advice from many sources, including the media and friends. We desire to be a consistent "rock" in their lives, not usurping the authority of the parents but working along side them in an effort to give these kids a solid foundation of truth based on a relationship with Christ. That is why relationships with students' parents are equally important.
A students@acf Volunteer is not:
  • an over-aged, glorified babysitter. Our goal is to build relationships with students to the point where we have the authority and respect necessary to make an impact in their lives. It is not about simply showing up to supervise or chaperone. This is an opportunity to influence young lives for the kingdom.
  • a bouncer. We are not looking for warm bodies to keep peace, monitor halls, or act as crowd control. Our mission is to expose kids to biblical truth, build genuine relationships with them, and teach them to know, love, and serve Jesus Christ. Our volunteers are not a group of body guards hired for the protection of Director of Student Ministries. They are actively involved in the ministry process - a ministry of life on life and heart on heart.
  • an over-grown toy. This is a student ministry characterized by relationships. While "fun and games" are a big part of what we do in student ministry, they are only tools used to open the door to relationships with these students. The ability to "play" with students is important, but every student has different needs and abilities. Relationships are formed as we open up our lives to students and allow them to see what awesome things God has done in our lives. The best way to teach them passion for God is to be passionate in your walk. The best way to teach them personal holiness is to model that in your relationship with them. The best way to teach them how to be a servant is to serve along side them.