Selecting the right volunteers for youth ministry is crucial. It’s more than just filling a position—it's about finding people who can positively impact the next generation. If you’re building a team for your youth group, here are five traits to avoid when recruiting volunteers. Steer clear of these to ensure your ministry team is strong, reliable, and impactful.

1. Impatience

Youth ministry often requires long hours, challenging activities, and interactions with teenagers that can test anyone's patience. If a volunteer is easily irritated or quick-tempered, especially during camps or long events, it could create tension within the group. Volunteers should be able to remain calm and composed, even when students are testing boundaries. Patience is key to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment.

2. Immaturity

Spiritual and emotional maturity are essential in a youth leader. Immature volunteers may seek validation from students or attempt to "fit in" rather than leading by example. This can create confusion and undermine their authority. Mature leaders don’t need constant affirmation—they're there to guide, not befriend the students. Volunteers should be role models who inspire respect rather than blur boundaries.

3. Unreliability

A volunteer who consistently shows up late or cancels without notice can throw off the flow of ministry. It's important to find individuals who follow through on their commitments. Consistency builds trust with both students and fellow volunteers. You need team members who are dependable, punctual, and take their responsibilities seriously—not just on time for meetings, but reliable in praying for and shepherding students.

4. Indifference

Indifference is the opposite of passion. Volunteers who are merely "going through the motions" or aren’t fully invested in the ministry’s mission won't have the energy to disciple students effectively. Passion and genuine care for the spiritual development of young people are necessary qualities. You want volunteers who are driven by a calling, not those who are just filling a gap or serving out of obligation.

5. Pride

The most dangerous trait in any leader is pride. Volunteers who think they have all the answers or expect everyone to follow their lead can become divisive. A volunteer should be humble and teachable, always putting the needs of the students and ministry above their personal agendas. Pride can be toxic and create unnecessary conflict within the team, so it’s essential to identify and avoid this trait early on.

Final Thoughts

These traits—impatience, immaturity, unreliability, indifference, and pride—are red flags when recruiting volunteers. While no one is perfect, aiming for volunteers who are patient, mature, reliable, passionate, and humble will ensure that your youth ministry thrives. Remember, the best leaders are those who reflect Christ's love and humility in everything they do.