How to Use Social Media to Appreciate and Empower Church Volunteers

Church volunteers are the backbone of ministry. They show up early, stay late, and carry much of the work that makes Sundays and midweek ministry happen. And yet—many serve behind the scenes, unnoticed by the broader church family.

Social media is one of the easiest (and most public) ways to change that.

Here’s how your church can use digital platforms to appreciate and empower volunteers throughout the year.

1. Spotlight Individuals by Name

Take time each week or month to highlight a specific volunteer:

• Share their photo (with permission)
• Mention where they serve
• Include a quote about why they serve or what they love about their team

This simple act not only honors the individual—it also reminds others that real people power your ministries.

2. Use Video to Tell Volunteer Stories

Short, casual videos work great here:

• Interview a couple who serve together
• Film a quick “day in the life” during setup or teardown
• Ask a student volunteer why they joined the team

These moments give your audience a behind-the-scenes look—and help demystify volunteering for others.

3. Celebrate Milestones and Faithfulness

Post when volunteers hit key moments:

• First time serving
• One-year anniversary
• Transitioning into a leadership role

These celebrations can inspire others to take the first step.

4. Say Thank You Publicly (and Often)

Whether it’s after a big outreach event, a student weekend, or Easter Sunday—pause to say thank you:

• Post a recap image with a message of gratitude
• Tag teams or individuals (when appropriate)
• Let your audience know volunteers made it all possible

Public recognition encourages a culture of gratitude.

5. Invite, Don’t Guilt

Use volunteer stories as gentle on-ramps:

• End posts with “Want to join a team like this?”
• Link to a signup form or next steps page

When people see the joy and meaning others have found through serving, they’re more likely to take that first step themselves.

Final Thoughts

Your church is full of faithful people who serve with heart and humility. Use your social media to make sure they’re seen, valued, and celebrated.

And in the process, you just might inspire the next wave of volunteers to step forward.