Divisional: Operations Lesson 1

Health and Value:

Challenge: Operations look different across divisions—some lean financial, others HR, others field logistics. That makes a consistent definition hard. The unifying aim: enable effective ministry through healthy systems, stewardship, and service. ​

Value:

  • Operations helps keep the ministry running smoothly so our teams can reach adolescents without distractions or hiccups.
  • We must always embody stewardship and hospitality—translating vision into action with integrity and care.
Operations Module 1: “Understanding Healthy Operations”
Audience: i100 Divisional Groups
Duration: 30–45 minutes
Format: Self-guided Online Lesson
Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, participants will be able to:

  1. Describe the value of healthy operational systems in supporting the Young Life mission.
  2. Identify and describe what operations look like in their local context.
  3. Recognize key operations tools and how to use them.

Lesson Flow

1.) Welcome: Why Operations Matter & What are Healthy Operational Systems?

"Healthy operations reduce distractions so we can focus on reaching kids with the Gospel. When we manage systems, resources, and communication well, ministry moves forward with strength.”

But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. 1 Corinthians 14:40.

Reflect on the Six Marks of Operational Health below.
  • Which mark is strongest in your context?
  • Which needs improvement?
  • What evidence supports your answer?

Marks of Operational Health

Understanding the habits, systems, and attitudes that keep ministry strong and sustainable. Healthy operations are more than processes; they are a way of serving people and the mission so the “behind-the-scenes” aligns with the heart of the Gospel.

1.) Thoughtful Practices — Luke 16:10

Healthy ops begin with stewardship and hospitality. Policies, forms, and systems exist to serve people, not slow them down.

  • Make ministry easier, not harder.
  • Protect time, attention, and emotional bandwidth.
  • Reflect care, not control; ask first, “How will this help staff and volunteers serve kids better?”
  • Example: Mobile-friendly processes; simplified approvals.
  • Health Indicator: Staff/volunteers say, “This process helps me focus on ministry.”

2.) Connected & Simple Workflows — Ephesians 4:3

Connection and clarity create unity and reduce friction.

  • Link teams across functions/divisions; eliminate duplication.
  • Use consistent tools and shared calendars.
  • Build trust through clear expectations and handoffs.
  • Example: Unified expense or onboarding processes.
  • Health Indicator: People say, “I know who to ask and what comes next.”

 

3.) Smart Resource Management — 1 Corinthians 4:2

Resources are sacred trusts from God and donors.

  • Budget around mission priorities; spending is visible and accountable.
  • Track time and travel to balance work/rest.
  • Invest in people, not just programs.
  • Example: Align divisional budgets to ministry outcomes.
  • Health Indicator: Leaders can explain how resources connect to reaching kids.

4.) Strong Communication — Colossians 4:6

Clarity, consistency, and grace keep everyone aligned.

  • Share updates through agreed channels; loop stakeholders in early.
  • Clarify roles and expectations; encourage upward/sideways comms.
  • Example: Weekly updates, clear calendars, shared dashboards.
  • Health Indicator: Staff say, “I feel informed, valued, and connected.”

5.) Mature & Improving Systems — 1 Thessalonians 5:21

Mature, documented rhythms that adapt with feedback.

  • Define roles/responsibilities; review/update processes regularly.
  • Use field feedback; balance consistency with contextual flexibility.
  • Example: Annual review of divisional policies with field input.
  • Health Indicator: People say, “Our systems grow with us, not against us.”

6) Data Management — Habakkuk 2:2

We collect truthfully to lead wisely and celebrate progress.

  • Accurate, timely Core Ministry Counts (CMC).
  • Data informs supervision, training, prayer; protect confidentiality.
  • Share insights to celebrate growth and impact.
  • Example: Use CMI to identify under-supported regions.
  • Health Indicator: Leaders say, “Our data helps us see the story of what God is doing.”

 

2.) ​ What Does Operations Look Like in Your Geography? (10–15 minutes)

Activity:

Write a short reflection using the link below to the following prompt:

“Who handles logistics, systems, and operations in your area? What tools do you use to stay organized? What existing needs can Operations assist with? What gaps do you experience? Which health indicator is currently visible in your team—and which is missing?”

Form

Workday and YLConnect​ are the primary global tools used around the world. But at this point in time, each division has rolled them out differently according to their current needs. If you have questions about Workday or YLConnect, your Ops Director is the best resource for you.

3.) ​ Wrap-Up & Call to Action (5 minutes)

“Healthy operations are everyone’s responsibility. Reach out to your operations contact this week and ask: ​ What is one thing we are doing well? ​ And how can I align better with your work?”

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