By Jessica Beach, Volunteer Coordinator

Imagine with me for a moment, your church secretary on a typical Thursday morning. She is going about her regular tasks – filing and typing up the bulletin – when the phone rings.

“Hello. Oh, hi Stacy. How are you? How is the leg healing? … Oh, I know the best part of hurting yourself is all the food they bring. Have you gotten one of Rachel’s pies yet? … They…”

The secretary stops mid-sentence and looks wide eyed at the door to her office.

“Stacy, I have to go, an angel just walked into my office … No, I’m not joking. She’s got a halo and wings and … cookies?! Of course, I’ll call you back.”

Sometimes, the most important part of volunteer recruitment is getting people’s attention. Last fall, with very little arm-twisting, I was persuaded to don my Halloween costume and head out to local churches as Jessica Angel. My purpose was to recruit volunteer groups for The Lights of Christmas. I even brought cookies to sweeten the deal. Who can say no to an angel with cookies?

This year, The Lights of Christmas runs for 18 nights between December 4 and 28, and Warm Beach Camp will need more than 1,700 volunteers to make it happen. Jobs range from costume characters to greeters to attendants in the petting farm. There is a job for every one in the family, even the kids.

I will do just about anything to get more volunteers through our doors, especially during The Lights of Christmas. Believe it or not, the Christmas season is fast approaching. Already, volunteers are calling to reserve their favorite volunteer assignments during the annual holiday event.

One great way to get involved is to organize your church group or civic club membership to come as a group and Adopt-a-Night at The Lights. This program allows your group to come and volunteer together.

Promotion of Adopt-a-Night can be made very easy. We have posters and flyers available, a DVD to play, and we can arrange for someone from the Camp to visit your group to help get folks signed up!

While I will not be showing up at your church door as an angel this year, one of my co-workers may. However, you certainly don’t have to wait for us to find you. If you would like to get involved, give me a call and we will be sure to find a place for you and your group.