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Studying and snacking seem to go hand in hand. Use exam time as an opportunity to start or deepen relationships with the students in your neighborhood.

During exam time, commit to delivering snacks to the students in your neighborhood.

Start by identifying the students in your neighborhood, from junior high school through graduate school. Talk to the parents of students younger than college age to tell them of your intentions and get their permission.

Then collect yummy snacks for your students to munch. Prepackaged items are best, such as small bags of nuts, fruit snacks, and trail mix. Then deliver your treats with a note of explanation and encouragement.

Don’t limit your efforts to finals time. Make it a habit to keep in touch with the students in your neighborhood. Use any school activities or other activities as an excuse. Know of a big game or meet coming up? Stop by with a sports drink or an energy bar. Do you know of a student who recently performed in a school play or concert? If you make it to the event, write a “bravo” note on a blank CD-R to tell the student that one day he or she might record an album of his or her own.

The academic calendar helps in creating entry points, especially if stepping into students’ lives like this is a new experience. Get a copy of the school year calendar from the office of each school near your neighborhood. That way you’ll be prepared for key dates throughout the school year.

Once you’ve established a relationship with the students and their parents during the school year, you can connect with them all year – not just during finals time.

Instant Intentions

If you feel the time and the relationship is right, don’t be afraid to tuck a faith-based note of encouragement in with the snacks. Consider including a favorite Bible verse and a note saying you’ll be praying for the recipient. (Then don’t forget to pray!)

-          From the book, Field Guide to Neighborhood Outreach by Group Publishing, 2007.