Outreach Idea (June '08)

The Big Idea:
Host a potluck “Family Dinner & A Movie” group to build a foundation of friendship and trust with neighbors this summer. The intent is for your group members to begin to get to know their neighbors for who they really are, take a genuine interest in them, and prayerfully expect to share God’s love as their guests respond to the sincere relationship that’s growing. This can be an offshoot of your existing group or an opportunity for launching a new group your co-leader or a prepped group member can take on. This group can also happen in a home OR, if you have the right equipment and weather, outdoors!

Suggested Process:
Share the “Big Idea” with your group and invite them to sub-group into teams of 3-6 people based on what city/neighborhood they live in. Each team can customize this process to best reach their neighbors:

1. Reserve a public space for 4-5 consecutive weeks/sessions (1-mo). The public space can be less threatening for some because it feels more neutral and it could open doors for others to see what you’re doing so they can join in too. Some possibilities that are usually available at no cost include:
   * Neighborhood clubhouse or common area
   * Community-use room in the local fire station
   * Rooms at the library
   * Rooms at the community center
   * Covered area at a park
   * Restaurant’s group / conference room (if you choose to eat out for one of your gatherings)
   If there’s difficulty finding a spot, contact your city’s chamber of commerce and ask them what rooms are available and open for city residents to reserve at no cost. Again, if you’d prefer to host this in your home or the home of one of your team members…that’s fine too!
2. Create a list of family-friendly movies and “theme nights” with food. You could even tie the theme of the movie with the dinner. Let people know they don’t have to bring something homemade unless they want to – it’s okay to grab something from a restaurant or grocery store on the way over – whatever’s easiest!
   
3. Establish the core of the group with people you already know before you ‘go public’.
   
4. After this foundation is laid, create a simple one-page flyer that identifies what you’re doing, who you are (along with all your contact info), why you’re doing it (to bring families together and enjoy the summer), and ask for a RSVP for the potluck. This increases people’s commitment level and lets you know who and how many to expect. If you have a smaller number of people you’re inviting, it’s recommended you hand-deliver it. If you have a larger number of people you’re inviting, you can use this free online tool: www.evite.com/app/cms/ideas/movie-night
   
5. Pray for the start-up of this group and for the people who will be receiving an invitation.
   
6. Be sure to let invitees know there are already some families who are planning to participate. This helps them to overcome the fear they may be the only ones who respond and it lessens any potential feelings of awkwardness.
   
7. Have fun! Your only “agenda” should be to enjoy your get-to-know-you times with your neighbors. After your first gathering, tell your guests they’re welcome to invite their friends to your next one!

Family Dinner & a Movie Resources:
www.crosswalk.com/movies
www.pluggedinonline.com/movies
http://www.movieministry.com/
www.cinekklesia.com/mt/archives/2007/11/top_5_familyfri.html
www.brehmcenter.com/institutes/reel-spirituality