Q: Should a volunteer team visit the homes of the new movers every month to welcome them?

Generally, we do not recommend visiting homes and knocking on doors. In many communities in 2023, this is no longer safe. However, with that said, there are still communities where this could be effective. The bottom line is that YOU know your community. If this is a viable strategy where you live, then keep in mind these tips:
1. DO NOT mention that they are new or “welcome” them to your community. Mentioning details that you already know about them that they did not tell you themselves IS NOT a good conversation starter.  2. Instead, say something like this: “Hello, I am from ___ church which is only about a mile from here. I wanted to simply introduce myself as one of your neighbors. If you are interested in trying a local church, we would love to see you there. If not, that’s ok too, but either way, we care about our neighbors and we are praying for you. If you ever have a specific need, please let me know how I can help you."

Q: If we do not knock on doors, how do we use the lists that you provide?

Here are 5 simple ideas. Copy these or use them as a starting point to brainstorm...

1. Have volunteers visit the homes and leave a personal invitation and a small gift (maybe a $5 starbucks card or something similar)
   
2. Mail followup pieces like a church newsletter or basic info about ministries at the church.
   
3. Leave door hangers that invite them to an upcoming community event.
   
4. Mail or hand deliver to their mailbox a handwritten note with a way for them to reach you.
   
5. Mail a personal welcome letter from the pastor that tells a little about who he/she is and how they can be reached.