Measuring Success and Impact??

Westside runs a monthly outreach/community event in a local school. Flipside.

It's not flashy or expensive. But it's a great environment that fulfills at least 3 things:
1. we bless and connect with families in our community we could never do in other environments
2. these families benefit from a safe environment and an introduction to Christian community
3. our church families enjoy a fun night for their kids and a place they can bring friends from school

Last night we held a FAMILY DINNER before FLIPSIDE. We hoped for 100 kids/parents.

Goal not met. 30 kids, 12 parents, 10-12 volunteers. (we wanted a little more parents)

HOWEVER, after debriefing with friends and volunteers I heard stories...

STORIES:
- one mom told us how much our daily nutrition help at the school is needed in this difficult season of their lives - first time we hear a personal thank you from this specific effort
- one volunteer described last night as "CHURCH" because of the opportunity to meet, talk with, and engage the life of some people who struggle in many ways at home, emotionally, and beyond; she said "this is why we do what we do"
- the kids heard the Christmas story, some for the first time
- the school janitor offered his extra hours last night for FREE
- the school resource teacher served alongside our volunteers because she saw this event as a way to resource the kids she pays attention to at school
- returning and first kids/families came out
- student leaders are learning to be mentors/leaders, some led whole stations
- a first time volunteer had a spectacular night serving
- left over food went to families that needed it

GOAL, not met... or met? Depends how you view success!

Sometimes you need to reflect on what actually happened before you claim it was successful.