Strengthening your Pioneer Clubs program and building relationships are only a few of the benefits when parents get involved.

Parents who fully understand what goes on in club become more committed to club. As you build relationships, you’ll also get to know more about children and home situations. Here are seven super ways to make it happen.

One helpful Pioneer Clubs position you may want to consider is that of a Parent Pal. At the beginning of the club year, this person’s responsibilities are to greet parents as they bring their children and begin building relationships.

Unchurched parents and parents on the fringes of your church will especially benefit. Dr. Charles Arn, president of Church Growth, Inc., points out that when parents build relationships with church people, they are more likely to receive Jesus and become involved in the church.

Armed with a coffee pot and perhaps snacks and copies of your club calendar, your Parent Pal can:

• introduce parents to each other
• show interest in parents and kids
• tell about your church programs
• invite parents to get involved in club
• keep parents up-to-date on club happenings

As the year progresses, the Parent Pal can work with you or your Special Events Coordinator to plan special club events that include parents, such as:

• parents open house
• cookout/board game party

The Parent Pal ministry might even grow into a special parent meeting during club time, such as:

• parenting study/support group (book or video study)
• Bible study/small group