We have heard it said that our Religious Education Program is part of our great legacy. It is a responsibility that I don’t take lightly. We have spent the last few years, rebuilding our volunteer team. But to continue that growth, we need more help.
There were a lot of tables to check out at the Volunteer Fair. Some of them were new and there was an understandable excitement. Unfortunately we got zero signups for Religious Education. And we have lots of opportunities to volunteer.
If you are interested in signing up for any of the opportunities, please fill out the form. And if you know someone who might be good at on of these tasks, but might need a little extra nudge, let Nick know.
Critical Children and Youth Religious Education Volunteers
(Click on Each Volunteer Role for more information)
Nursery Volunteer
Description: We are in need of caring volunteers to spend time with any small children during both the service (ages 0-5) and the RE hour (ages 0-3).
Time Commitment: One to Two Sundays a Month
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 6-8
Age of Reason (Flower Communion) Teachers
Description: Develop and lead the “Age of Reason” class for 2nd and 3rd graders, April 6th-May 18th. The class explores the children’s stage of growth and highlights their individuality using art, music, and other activities. The curriculum from two years ago can be used as a starting point.
Time Commitment: As needed leading up to the class, then weekly in April and May
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 2-3
Substitute Teachers
Description: Fill in for the teachers as needed. You will not be expected to prep, but to assist. At least one Sub needs to be “on call” each Sunday RE is offered.
Time Commitment: As Needed
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 2+
Worship Bag Monitor
Description: Someone to ensure the worship bags are cleaned, updated, and restocked. Supplies have been donated, so there is no need to purchase items. If we are low on items, we will ask for more donations.
Time Commitment: Check regularly as needed
Background Check: No
Volunteers Needed: 1-2
Sunday Morning RE Coordinator
Description: Assist and communicate with Prek-7th grade teachers with preparation and coordination of classes. Manage registration and attendance in REALM. Speak Regularly with DRE about classes each week.
Time Commitment: Coordinate with teachers and DRE any week RE is being offered. Should be present most weeks and cover when DRE is not available.
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 1-2
Curriculum Assistant
Description: The RE Curriculum Assistant supports RE teachers by ensuring they have all necessary materials for weekly lessons. This includes maintaining inventory, coordinating with teachers, ordering and distributing materials, and tracking usage.
Time Commitment: Weekly in days leading up to Sunday
Background Check: No
Volunteers Needed: 1-2
Can be combined with Sunday Morning RE Coordinator
Senior Youth Group Advisor
Description: Facilitate Senior youth events (9th-12th grades), including Sunday Morning RE, evening events, trips, etc. Become a mentor to youth. Work with DRE to coordinate individual events.
Time Commitment: Most Sundays
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 3-4
Other Religious Education Volunteer Needs
(Click on Each Volunteer Role for more information)
Children’s RE Teacher
Description: Teach weekly religious education classes using the Soul Matters curriculum. Ensure lessons are engaging, age-appropriate, and promote a safe and inclusive learning environment. Monitor and communicate student progress to parents. Participate in professional development and collaborate with colleagues to enhance the overall student experience.
Time Commitment: 3-4 times a Month
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 2-4
Teaching assistant
Description: supports the teacher in delivering engaging religious education lessons. They prepare the classroom, welcome and supervise students, and provide individualized support. They also maintain communication with parents and engage in professional development.
Time Commitment: Once or Twice a Month
Background Check: Yes
Volunteers Needed: 4-6
Safety Team
Description: Maintain and audit safety procedures for Children and Youth RE. Report to DRE and Minister any improvements. Give guidance to teachers and volunteers on ways to remain in compliance with state policies.
Background Check: No
Volunteers Needed: 2-3
Supply Closet Inventory
Description: We need volunteers to organize our Religious Education resource closets. This involves sorting items, creating a detailed inventory of materials by type, quantity, and condition. This will help assess current resources and future needs.
Time Commitment: Monthly Check-ins and as needed
Background Check: No
Volunteers Needed: 1-2
Other ways to serve the Fellowship
(Click on Each Volunteer Role for more information)
Hospitality Box Monitor
Description: A person or persons to monitor the contents of the hospitality boxes in our bathrooms. Coordinate with staff to restock items as needed.
Time Commitment: Check regularly as needed
Volunteers Needed: 2-3
Congregational Life Team
Description: Plan fun and meaningful events throughout the year, like potlucks, game nights, and holiday celebrations, to foster connection and nurture relationships among members and visitors.
Time Commitment: Monthly meetings and regular check ins
Volunteers Needed: 5+
Single Event Volunteers
- Spring Queer Makers Market – Planning Team
- Drag Bingo Hospitality Team – Provide simple refreshments for Drag Bingo on February 14th
- Easter Egg Hunt – Plan and coordinate annual Easter Egg Hunt on April 20th
Expectations for all Religious Education Volunteers
- A team player with a view toward long term sustainability and short term change.
- Live our UU principles and follow our Right Relations Promise.
- Familiarity (or openness to learn) REALM, Google Workspace, and other technologies that make this work more efficient
- Regularly check in with DRE to inform of any problems, concerns, or needs
- Share joyous stories with fellow teachers
- Willingness to submit to an online background check
- Be organized and prepared
- Maintain a clarity of mind in stressful situations
- Developing a greater understanding of one’s strengths and weaknesses
- Maintains a sense of curiosity and wonder (In no way needs to be an expert, just a guide in discovery)
- Help build resilience, offer support, and encourage each child to connect with their quest for purpose and meaning
- Think about the gifts you will bring to the classroom and how your talents might complement your co-teacher and bring joy to the group
