There are so many reasons to incorporate service and outreach into your event. Service projects build bonds between those serving and carry out the second greatest commandment to ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ (Matthew 22:37–39). Including service in your event schedule allows your attendees to put their faith into action and create an impactful experience. How can you effectively weave service and outreach opportunities into your event? Keep reading to find out.

Identify a Local Need or Cause

During the planning phase of your event, research local ministries or organizations in the community where your conference or retreat is being held. This could include supporting a homeless shelter, visiting a nursing or children’s home, organizing a food drive, or partnering with a local church for a service project. Local ministries will have on-the-ground insight into the needs of the community which can be a huge benefit when planning service projects.

Incorporate Service Opportunities into the Event Schedule

Once you’ve identified a cause, work it into the event schedule. Designate specific times during the event for group service activities, or offer opportunities for attendees to participate during breaks or downtime. If you’re planning a larger event, this could be an organized “day of service” where participants are split into teams to work on different projects.

Celebrate the Service Accomplished Together

At the end of the event, set aside time to celebrate the service that was done. Share testimonies from both those who served. Show gratitude for the work completed, and reflect on how God worked through the attendees to bring tangible change to the community. This can be an encouraging and inspiring way to close the event and help attendees leave with a renewed sense of purpose.

Encourage Ongoing Service Beyond the Event

The goal of incorporating service into your event is not only to provide a one-time experience but to inspire ongoing action. Near the end of your event, encourage participants to continue serving in their own communities. Offer resources or suggest ways they can stay connected to the ministries they supported during the event. You can also encourage attendees to engage in service with ministries in their hometowns when they return home. 

Incorporating service and outreach into your event isn’t just about doing good deeds—it’s about creating an environment where faith is lived out in practical ways. It challenges attendees to engage with the community, serve others, and reflect Christ’s love beyond the event. By making service a central focus, you’ll leave a lasting impact both on the participants and on the community they serve.