Need Help Planning? We’ve Got You Covered!

Sometimes the hardest part of serving is knowing where to start. Don’t worry—we’re here to help you brainstorm and plan your Serve Challenge project! Whether you're serving with family, friends, your small group, or coworkers, this page will guide you through creating a meaningful and impactful experience."
Who Might You Serve With?
Start by considering who you can serve alongside. Projects are even more fun and impactful when you invite others to join you!
  • Family: Teach your kids the joy of serving and make memories together.
  • Friends: Turn a fun hangout into an opportunity to serve.
  • Small Group: Leverage the strength of your group to make a bigger impact.
  • Coworkers: Build connections by serving alongside your team.
  • Neighbors: Get to know those around you and work together to serve others.
Tip: You can even serve solo! Sometimes the best way to show love is by quietly meeting a need on your own.
Questions to Spark Ideas
Not sure what kind of project to plan? Start by asking yourself these questions:
  • What skills or talents do I (or my group) have? For example, can you cook, build, sew, organize, or teach?
  • Who do I know that has a need? Think about neighbors, coworkers, or friends who might be struggling.
  • What issues am I passionate about? (e.g., homelessness, education, hunger, the environment.)
  • What local organizations do I care about? Consider reaching out to them to ask how you can help.
  • How much time do I have? Choose a project that fits your schedule and resources.
Two Types of Projects to Consider
1. Use Your Skills to Meet a Substantial Need:
Create a project that matches your unique abilities and talents. Examples:
  • Hosting a free workshop to teach a skill.
  • Repairing or building something for someone in need.
  • Cooking and delivering meals to a family facing hardship.
Challenge: Push yourself to tackle a project that directly meets a tangible need in your community. It might take more time, but the impact is worth it.
2. Acts of Kindness:
Smaller actions can still have a big impact! Examples:
  • Delivering flowers to someone who could use encouragement.
  • Writing thank-you notes to first responders.
  • Paying for a stranger’s coffee and leaving a Random Acts of Kindness card.
Challenge: While acts of kindness are wonderful, we encourage you to go beyond the easy things. Pair a simple act of kindness with a larger project to make an even greater impact.
Steps to Plan Your Project
Once you have an idea, follow these simple steps to get started:
  1. Pray: Ask God to guide you toward the people and projects He wants you to serve.
  2. Plan: Write down the details—who, what, when, and where.
  3. Gather Supplies: Make a list of what you’ll need to complete your project.
  4. Communicate: If you’re serving with others, clearly assign roles and responsibilities.
  5. Serve: Go out and love like Jesus!
Examples of Past Projects
In need of inspiration? Check out some ideas from past Serve Week events.
  • The youth group cleaned up trash in the neighborhood surrounding the church
  • A group hosted an ice cream social at a local nursing home
  • Groups helped with landscaping projects at Birthright and the Boys and Girls Club
Resources to Help You
  • Random Acts of Kindness Cards: Leave these behind to encourage those you serve. 
  • Serve Challenge Idea List: Check out our full list of service ideas by clicking the icon for each category.
  • Family Serve Challenge devotion box.