Fixing the Fringes: Helping Volunteers Feel Like They Belong

Every team has them—the volunteers who hover on the edges. They’re not disruptive, not causing problems, but also not fully engaged. They slip in quietly, do their task, and slip out. Over time, it can start to feel like they’re on a different wavelength than the rest of the team.

Why does this happen? Sometimes it’s personal. A volunteer may be walking through struggles that naturally make them withdraw. Other times, it’s cultural—they don’t feel like they fit into the unspoken mold of the group. For younger volunteers, it could be that they’re there because a parent nudged them, not because they chose it. And let’s be honest, some people just lean toward being a little antisocial. None of this makes them less valuable, but it does mean they’re at risk of staying on the fringe.

So, how do we help? How do we move teammates from the sidelines into the heart of the group?

1. Start with personal connection.

Don’t underestimate the power of a simple “Hey, how are you really doing?” Consistent, genuine check-ins communicate that you see them, not just their role.

2. Be the bridge.

Help them find common ground with others on the team. If you know two people both love the same band, show, or coffee spot, make the introduction. Sometimes all someone needs is one connection to shift from outsider to insider.

3. Write it down.

A handwritten note still carries weight. Point out specific ways they’ve contributed:

“The way you handled that last-minute change showed so much flexibility,” or “Your consistency makes the whole team stronger.”

Tangible encouragement beats generic praise every time.

4. Pray, even without details.

You don’t have to know every layer of someone’s personal life to lift them up in prayer. Interceding for them is a way of caring that goes beyond what you can do in conversation.

If you’re a church creative or production leader, you’ve probably seen how easy it is for team members to get lost on the margins. Don’t let the fringes become their permanent spot. Lead with intention, and you’ll start pulling people toward the center where they can thrive.

And if you’re struggling to figure this out for your own team? Reach out—I’d love to help you navigate the ups and downs of keeping volunteers engaged and connected.