How to Thank Your VBS Volunteers (Without Breaking the Budget)
Check out these fresh VBS volunteer appreciation ideas! And thank YOU for impacting so many lives this summer!
Vacation Bible school (VBS) is one of the most joyful—and volunteer-intensive—events your church puts on each year. From decorating and prepping activities to wrangling preschoolers and leading songs with big energy, volunteers are the heartbeat of the entire week. Without their servant hearts, creativity, and dedication, VBS simply wouldn’t happen.
That’s why it’s so important to pause and celebrate these all-stars. Showing VBS volunteers appreciation doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. A little intentional gratitude goes a long way! Here are some of our favorite (and totally doable) ways to say a big, heartfelt “thank you.”
Sweet & Simple: Treats with a Twist
A small token of appreciation—especially one with sugar involved—can brighten a tired volunteer’s day. Add a fun pun or thoughtful note for extra impact!
- Tape a thank-you tag to a fun treat or gift.
- Examples:
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- “Thank you for sticking with us!” (gum)
- “You’re the sweetest part of VBS!” (candy)
- “You’re a lifesaver!” (mints)
- “Thanks for being a superstar volunteer” (Starburst)
Check out some of the free, cute printable tags we found on Pinterest:
Spotlight & Standing Ovations
The Sunday after VBS is the perfect time to thank volunteers publicly—and let your congregation see what a big impact they made.
Ideas:
- Show a short slideshow or video recapping the week (bonus points for kid quotes and funny moments).
- Invite all volunteers to stand and be recognized. Whether they served snacks, ran registration, or led music, make sure everyone is included.
- Let the kids say it best: Record them saying thank you during the week and play the clips during your Sunday celebration. It’s powerful and tear-worthy.
Fuel Up: Donuts, Coffee, and Conversation
Sometimes the best way to show love is through food. Keep it casual and community-focused.
Ideas:
- Host a “Thanks-a-Latte” coffee table with donuts or muffins before or after church. Invite all volunteers to swing by and grab a treat.
- If you have space, offer a post-church lunch just for VBS helpers—something simple like pizza, tacos, or sandwiches.
- Use this time to share stories, photos, and funny moments from the week. It becomes a debrief and celebration in one.
Go the Extra Mile (When You Can)
If your budget allows, consider a small gift.
Ideas:
If you have extra VBS decorations, offer volunteers first dibs. Many would love to take home a piece of the fun!
VBS volunteers don’t serve to be thanked. But when we pause to appreciate them, we build a culture of encouragement and joy that draws people back to serve again.
For more tips and tools to thank and retain volunteers, check out these posts!
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