At Operation Christmas Child, volunteers work throughout the year on Ministry Teams. These teams mobilize and equip individuals, churches, and groups to become actively involved in fulfilling the Great Commission through Operation Christmas Child (OCC). Each team consists of dedicated individuals committed to fulfilling the mission of OCC by using their unique gifts and talents. Teams are organized by Regional Staff Representatives or by Volunteer Area Coordinators.

Specific areas of service include:

PRAYER TEAM

The Prayer Teams are made up of dedicated trained volunteers who have a heart for Christ and who believe in the power of prayer. Prayer Team Coordinators need not be "Prayer Warriors," but rather have the ability to inspire others to pray. The Prayer Teams are committed to cover the project, including volunteers, donors, receiving countries, receiving children and their families, as well as the logistics of the collection and transportation, in prayer.

CHURCH RELATIONS TEAM

The Church Relations Team is a group of trained interdenominational volunteers, working together to spread information about Operation Christmas Child to local churches. These highly dedicated volunteers call on new churches as well as churches that have previously participated in the project, to share with them the joy that comes from sending shoe box gifts to children around the world. These creative volunteers help church groups find innovative ways to incorporate Operation Christmas Child into their ministry.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS TEAM

Volunteers serving on a Community Relations Team are trained to work throughout the year to build relationships with non-church groups such as schools, businesses, civic organizations, and scout groups to grow the number of gifts sent around the world. These volunteers have a heart to reach out to children overseas and to their own community.

MEDIA RELATIONS TEAM

Media Relations volunteers are trained for the year-round promotion of Operation Christmas Child. These volunteers are gifted in building relationships with various media outlets, including radio, print and television, with a goal of increasing awareness of the project and ultimately generating more shoe box gifts.

COLLECTION NETWORK - RELAY AND COLLECTION CENTERS

The team that makes up the Collection Network has the important role of organizing the proper collection of shoe box gifts in their area. These trained teams are made up of dedicated groups of volunteers in Collection Centers and Relay Centers who enjoy using their gifts of organization, planning, and communication.

AREA COORDINATOR

The Area Coordinator is an extremely dedicated and trained volunteer who has accepted the call to lead an Area Leadership Team, comprised of coordinators from the five Ministry Teams. This person is responsible for developing and managing the group, planning and implementing all Operation Christmas Child activities in their area, and establishing goals and strategies for success. The Area Coordinator is responsible for the recruitment, selection, training, and discipleship of all the volunteers who serve on the team.

PROJECT LEADER FOR YOUR CHURCH OR GROUP

A dedicated volunteer leader is the key to effectively implementing Operation Christmas Child with your church or group. A Project Leader brings organization and creativity to the project and ensures a meaningful experience for all involved.

VOLUNTEER AT A LOCAL REGIONAL OFFICE

Volunteers in our regional offices are instrumental in the implementation of the project in their respective areas by organizing materials, providing necessary clerical support, and reaching out to new churches, groups, and individuals.

To volunteer year-round with Operation Christmas Child, go to the Volunteer Interest Form.