Navigation
Volunteer = Career Opportunity
By Patty Edwards Shaver
MCV Career Development Facilitator
After attending two years at the University of North Carolina, Rob Phillips was unsure what occupation he wanted to pursue. Phillips took some time off from school until he decided which career path to take. He worked in various jobs including a retail sales position with a local music store that he held for ten years. Since he was a musician at heart this was a good fit for Phillips, but something was still missing.
It was through Phillips’ volunteer role in the youth ministry at his church that he discovered his passion.
“My gift is working with young people,” Phillips said. After making this discovery, Phillips position, Director of Youth Ministries at White Plains United Methodist Church (WPUMC) of Cary, became available. Phillips has been working in this role for six years while attending Pfeiffer University to earn certification in youth ministry through the United Methodist Church. This certification is based on graduate degree level courses combined with previous work experience.
Additionally, Phillips has gained valuable knowledge by attending national youth worker conventions and workshop type retreats. After observing other youth directors who were doing well Phillips was determined to emulate them. Phillips discovered what was successful for other youth directors and considered these ideas for his ministry. The first couple of years were very tough for Phillips, but perseverance and networking for support helped him get to where he is today.
One must have a “love and patience for young people,” Phillips explains. When working with youth, it is important to understand the mindset of the adolescent, especially if a teen seeks counseling for a problem he or she may be experiencing. This can be a stressful situation for a youth director—to not get emotionally involved. “You can’t just step in and take their problems away from them,” Phillips explains.
Phillips’ brought his musical talents to the ministry and organized a youth worship team consisting of a six-piece praise band and a team of singers. He leads the youth in singing as he plays his guitar, and sometimes he equips the youth to lead.
Behind the scenes Phillips must plan curriculum, coordinate activities, screen volunteers and meet with staff members. Phillips stresses the importance of getting along with others in order to coordinate well. “We coordinate really well together,” he added.
This teamwork effort gained WPUMC recognition by the North Carolina Conference of United Methodist Churches for having an outstanding youth ministry. The church is one of 400 churches nationwide chosen to participate in a study based on keeping senior high school kids involved in youth activities. At WPUMC, the youth are encouraged and motivated to service by being actively involved in local and world missions.
Phillips success is linked to his passion for working with the youth. What Phillips loves most about his job is seeing lives grow and change--from low self-esteem to confident leaders. His reward is seeing the youth succeed and knowing that he made a difference.
For those who may be interested in his or any occupation, Phillips advised, “Work with something that you have a passion for, and believe in, and love. To be happy in life you need to enjoy what you are doing and know that you are making a difference.”
Reprinted from Career Choices in North Carolina, 2004-05