Fall 2025 | Board Motion for Congregational Approval
Preamble:
In 2023, the board proposed a “Stewarding Opportunity” initiative that would see us invest in the families with children who had begun to attend our church. The initiative included hiring a part-time staff member (20 hours/week) on a two (2) year contract to oversee and facilitate our Family and Children’s Ministry. Vanessa Atkinson was hired, and has served with passion and excellence.
Review Process:
As we are nearing the end of the contract term, the board has undertaken a process to develop a proposal for the congregation. Brad Stevens (board member) and Jon Warner (pastor) were assigned to the review committee, tasked with bringing recommendations back to the board.
Board Response and Motion:
After discussing the recommendations from the committee, the board:
The board moves:
That as a church we continue staffing a half time Family and Children’s Ministry Coordinator on an ongoing basis (as finances allow) and that we invite Vanessa Atkinson to remain on staff in the role.
In 2023, the board proposed a “Stewarding Opportunity” initiative that would see us invest in the families with children who had begun to attend our church. The initiative included hiring a part-time staff member (20 hours/week) on a two (2) year contract to oversee and facilitate our Family and Children’s Ministry. Vanessa Atkinson was hired, and has served with passion and excellence.
Review Process:
As we are nearing the end of the contract term, the board has undertaken a process to develop a proposal for the congregation. Brad Stevens (board member) and Jon Warner (pastor) were assigned to the review committee, tasked with bringing recommendations back to the board.
- A survey was undertaken to receive as much feedback from the congregation as possible. We received 28 surveys.
- The feedback received was very positive.
- Respondents felt the ministry effectively served families in the church.
- 96% of respondents felt Vanessa provided “excellent” or “good leadership to the ministry (77% felt “excellent”).
- 88.5% of respondents felt the ministry aligned well with the overall mission of the church.
- Many commented that the ministry has had a positive impact on our church in holding space for children and the life the younger ones bring to the community.
- 85% of respondents said “yes, definitely” to supporting the continuation or expansion of the Family and Children’s Ministry position.
- A number of respondents felt that volunteer recruitment was an area of improvement so that Vanessa wasn’t doing it all herself.
- Respondents identified three top priorities for the ministry: 1) Annual Summer Day Camp, 2) Outreach to families outside the church and 3) Integration of children in worship.
Board Response and Motion:
After discussing the recommendations from the committee, the board:
- Feels the Family and Children’s Ministry continues to be a priority for our church community.
- Agrees that the ministry aligns well with our vision.
- Feels there is a growth opportunity in connecting with children outside the congregation.
- Feels the current ½ time (20 hours/week) staff position is both a) adequate and b) necessary to continue developing our Family and Children’s Ministry.
The board moves:
That as a church we continue staffing a half time Family and Children’s Ministry Coordinator on an ongoing basis (as finances allow) and that we invite Vanessa Atkinson to remain on staff in the role.