November 2004

In This Issue:

Featured Events - Parents' Night Out

Real Stories - Case Study: Outreach Event/Caffeinated Comedy Night

Performer Profile - Kathy Westfield: Therapeutic Comedy

Special Promotions - Direct Mail Postcards ~ Referral Rewards Program

Effective Resources - Fundles!

Event Planning Tip of the Month - Build Trust with Visitors

News & Updates - Team & Performer News

Joke of the Month - Featuring Kathy Westfield

Parents' Night Out

One of the best ways you can minister to young families in your neighborhood is by offering free child care. Take four hours from a Saturday night (this is enough time for such activities as dinner and a movie, or Christmas shopping), and offer free child care to your neighborhood. Not only will you minister to the parents you're relieving for the evening, but you have the opportunity to minister to the kids you're left in charge of. Host an Outreach Comedy Performer for lots of fun and a message that kids can understand. What an awesome chance to change lives! Read up on lots of ideas and activities to make this Event work at your church.

Target Audience

Location

Site Set-Up Ideas

Decorations

Check-In Tables:

Volunteers

Activity Ideas

Ideas & Tools to Get the Word Out

Budget Booster Ideas

Added Outreach Impact

Case Study:

Outreach Event

Caffeinated Comedy Night

Event Basics

Customer Interviewed: Pastor Gary Brown

Organization Name: Overland Park Church of Christ

Event Name: Caffeinated Comedy (coffee and dessert after)

Event Type: Outreach Event

Event Dates & Time: Friday, October 15, 2004 at 7:30pm.

Event Location: Held at the church auditorium and fellowship hall downstairs. In Overland Park, KS.

Location Profile: The church is located in the suburbs of Kansas, about 10 miles outside of downtown Kansas City, MO.

Attendee Type: Community: including friends of church members and those who are not currently attending church anywhere.

Price per Attendee: $8 for a regular ticket with a maximum price set of $20 per family. Attendees who invited a guest (non-member) received half price on all tickets purchased.

Total Attendees: 502

Behind the Scenes Efforts:

Publicity Tools Used:

Tickets: Sold through the church office starting 3 weeks before Event--call-in and walk-in ticket orders were accepted. Tickets also sold at the door.

Team Efforts Included: Approximately 20 volunteers assisted.

About the Event

Event Purpose:

The Event was outreach oriented to attract the community to a non-churchy/non-threatening environment.

Event Content Included:

The drama team opened with a humorous skit that lasted about 10 minutes. The pastor introduced the comedian, who performed for 70 minutes. After the comedy the audience broke for coffee and dessert downstairs (almost everyone stayed for dessert). There was no message given at the Event. Free child care was offered for children 0-7 years old. 60 Children were put into childcare.

Decorations:

The auditorium was filled with pews and was not decorated--seating available for 800 with an elevated stage. The room was blackened except for stage lights. The fellowship hall (where coffee and dessert were served) was arranged with tables and fall decorations on each table.

Capturing Visitor Information:

Drawings were held for family prizes (guests were asked to supply their name and address on the back of their tickets). Prizes included items like family board games, etc. After the Event, visitors received a thank-you letter in the mail, informing them of upcoming events this fall. They also plan to send out another letter detailing Christmas Events.

About the Comedy Performance

Performer: Michael Joiner

Type: 70 minute stand-up performance.

Response to Performer:

"The response was fantastic. He really connected with the group. It was outstanding." - Pastor Gary Brown

Results

Total Visitors:

25 guests signed in as first time visitors. Several others had come back from previous events. There was a total of 150 visitors in attendance (or 30%).

Overall Response to the Entire Event:

"The overall response was very positive. Members loved it and were very excited to bring guests to an Event like this." - Pastor Gary Brown

New Attendees Retained:

The following Sunday 5 visitors signed in - although this number is not entirely accurate because not everyone signs in.

Additional Comments

Biggest Concerns Heading into the Event:
"We'd never hosted a Comedy Event before, and were nervous about selling tickets--we didn't want the Event to flop. 100 people in an auditorium that seats 800 doesn't feel that great."

How These Concerns Were Addressed & Resolved:

"We promoted heavily through Bible classes and small groups, sent out postcards, and sold lots of last minute tickets at the door (131)."

How This Compares with Past Events:
"This event was a lot more fun for everyone. We've never done anything like this before. It was a fun evening for the community."

Would You Do This Event Again?

"Yes. It was a great atmosphere for everyone. It was well-liked and a great way to get people here who have not been before. It was an outreach event that ended up being a great inreach event as well. The members had a great time with each other an with the guests.

What Would You Do Differently Next Time?

"More promotion... maybe newspaper, flyers, a radio interview with Michael or another comedian."

What Would You Say to People Planning a Similar Event?

"It's a great way to show everyone that you can get together and have a good time with some good clean comedy. I strongly recommend comedy for outreach or inreach--it provides a great evening of fun."

Comedian Kathy Westfield

Therapeutic Comedy

Where are you from, and what was it like growing up there?

Originally, I am from South Los Angeles.  Growing up in Los Angeles was exciting.  Not only was it the big city with wonderful weather but one in which you were exposed to many different lifestyles and cultures.  What was also appealing was the fact that both sides of my family are from Los Angeles so there were many happy times and memories.  When I was 13, my dad decided to move us to Oregon.  He felt this would be a more wholesome environment which would expand our horizons.  I wasn't very happy about the move at the time, however, looking back on it the change has made me a more rounded person and exposed me to many different experiences that I would have not had the opportunity to experience in Los Angeles.

When and how did you become interested in being a stand-up comedian?

From as far back as I can remember, I have loved to laugh.  This was my coping mechanism.  I guess in the back of my mind I always had the desire to share my sense of humor.  One day I saw a program featuring a comedian who taught a stand-up comedy class.  I immediately wrote down the number and took the class.  I  started doing open mics whenever and wherever I could.   At one point, I was at comedy clubs so much that I felt like I lived there. People ask me all the time if I would recommend taking a class, and I say that although the class got me on stage that first time, your real learning experience comes from getting on stage and just doing it. That's how I got started in a nutshell, give or take about 15 years...

How did you become a Christian?

I have always believed in God, however, it wasn't until 1987 that I first gave my life to Jesus Christ.  After a few years of backsliding, I began my relationship with God again.  I have to admit on both occasions my coming to Christ was after experiencing much pain and heartache.  And although I seemed to be successful in the world's eyes, deep down inside I felt that something was missing in my life.  I can say it was the best thing that has ever happened to me.  The peace of mind and joy that accompanies having a genuine relationship with Christ is unlike anything this world has to offer.

What's your favorite thing about being a comedian?

I get the biggest kick out of seeing smiles on people's faces.  The ability to share my warped sense of humor and to have others laugh along with me is enlightening.  When people say, "Yeah, I used to do that," or "That happened to me," it also lets me know that I'm not the only silly one out here.


What are some of your current struggles and triumphs?

One of my current struggles is staying on the straight and narrow. We are tempted daily by other people, situations, and other worldly forces not to mention own sinful nature.  Without daily prayer, scripture reading and a continuous relationship with God, one can easily be lead astray.

My current triumph is when I find myself in a situation where previously I would have responded one way and I now respond in a totally different fashion.  I find myself not reacting like I used to.  Before that driver on the freeway has the chance to cut me off, I graciously let them over.

How do you see the Lord moving through your Comedy?

The Lord has been a moving force in my comedy by allowing me the opportunity to share how His grace has impacted my life.  In sharing these difficult situations, I feel that my testimony somehow impacts the lives of others experiencing hardships.

Your comedy has been described as therapeutic.  In what ways have you found it therapeutic for yourself and others?

I have always said that I have healed a lot on stage.  In fact, I believe that I have probably saved thousands of dollars on therapy just by sharing my experiences in my stand-up routine. 

By telling my story, others come up to me after a performance to talk about their struggles.  For example, I talk about being in a physically abusive relationship.  By discussing this openly, not only has it helped me to heal but it has also helped audience members going through this same experience.  It gives them hope and helps them realize that they are not alone.  I also talk about the stresses and strains associated with parenthood.  People come up to me afterwards feeling relieved, they usually say, "You mean my kids aren't the only ones that do that?"


Where do you see yourself in the next ten years?

In the next ten years, I see my walk with God being even stronger.  Somehow, I see myself still sharing my sense of humor perhaps in a motivational manner.

What's your favorite Bible verse and why?

"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." ~ Ephesians 6:11-12

It's my favorite verse because it reminds me that without God, it's hopeless.  Unless we wear His armour, we are helpless.  But with it we are protected.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Free time?  That's Greek to me.  As a single mom with two children and a comedy career, I don't see a lot of free time.  When I do, and it's not too often, I spend time fellowshipping with others, reading and attempting to do a little gardening.

What's you're all time favorite gig?

My favorite gig was performing for a group of seniors.  I'll never forget when I first walked into the room and looked around.  I saw all these solemn faces and thought how could I possibly make them laugh?  What could I possibly say to these people that they haven't already heard or experienced?  Well I shared my stories as usual and had them on the floor.  I'm sure some of these people hadn't laughed in years and it really touched me because I realized how humor can reach people across the board.  I felt blessed that day to be able to bring some joy into their lives and to bring some long lost smiles back on their faces.

Anything else you'd like to share?

I'd like to say how blessed I am to be associated with Outreach.  I stepped out in faith over a year ago and left my day job after 23 years.  I had no savings, a huge mortgage and two kids in private school.  I prayed that the Lord would open up the opportunity for me to use my God given talents. Shortly thereafter I met the people at Outreach and they have kept me working ever since.  Not only do I get to share my humor but I have also been given a bigger opportunity in that I get to share my faith and testimony. It has definitely been a blessing and I thank God for it everyday!  By the way, there has not been a day that has gone by when we were hungry, my kids are still in private school and I'm still in my house.

Click here to read more about Kathy Westfield and watch her video clip!

Monthly Website Promotion

500 FREE Direct Mail Postcards (DIY only) are yours when you schedule your Event* by November 30, 2004! A $99 Value!

People are attracted to your church when you communicate your unique identity in a practical and compelling way. So that people can understand and respond to your message, your outreach efforts need to convey who you are to the right audience, at the right time, through the right method. When you do, visitors will come!

An ImpactCard is a direct mail postcard designed to invite people to your church. You can choose from over 250 designs with reverse sides that you can personalize with your church or ministry information.

Check out some great Comedy styles here or visit www.outreach.com to see the full array of styles you can choose from.

Once you have your Cards, address them to the right people!   Here are two possible strategies that will have the greatest impact in your community:

(1) Mail them to members of your congregation, make sure you indicate that this Event is designed for them to invite their unsaved friends!

(2) When running your Impact Cards through the printer with your Event information, leave a space for a hand written note. Pass them out during Sunday service to attenders, or hand them out at the back after service. Encourage your members to address the card to one of their friends with a personal note written on the card. Have 20-cent stamps available for purchase for their convenience.

*Booking minimum required. DIY cards only, offer not valid for use with personalized or custom cards. Offer good on new events only. Not valid with any other offer. Must mention offer to Event Coordinator at time of first contact.

Referral Rewards Program

*Qualifying Referrals must book an Event, valid on referral's initial Event only, new clients only, with a minimum Event price of $1000.

Fundles!

Outreach Comedy Top Talent
+
Outreach Communication Tools

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A Successful, Cost-Effective Outreach Event

Outreach Comedy's top-quality talent, combined with the best Outreach communication tools available, provide the essentials for an effective and successful Outreach Event. Capture their attention with Outreach communication tools, then capture their hearts utilizing a hysterical and entertaining Outreach Comedy Performer.

Now specifically bundled together, "Fundles" combine both these essential elements into one strategic and specially priced package for a complete, effective and successful Event. Ask your Event Coordinator about Fundles and pricing!

Fundles Include...

Build Trust

Deliver on the promises you make: The key here is meeting expectations with honesty. Don't advertise your Event in a "non-churchy" way and then trap unbelieving guests with a surprise Gospel message. That will only leave them feeling tricked and/or force-fed.

Understand Expectations: Here are some factors that help build trust.

• Language: The less Christian and church terms are mentioned on flyers and ads, the less guests will expect a message. Keep in mind that unchurched guests don't understand "Christianese," the less you use, the better.

• Building: Location plays a big role on expectation. If you're holding the Event in your church building, unchurched guests are bound to be more skeptical. If giving a message, play the church up; if not giving a message, play up the "unchurchy" offerings of the evening and let the church hosting be in the small print.

• Date & Time: The day of the week is a good indicator for spiritual expectations. People expect more of a message on Sunday mornings than Friday nights.

A Great Outreach Idea: You can avoid any concern on "bait and switch" by hosting a Comedy Night on Saturday night, then inviting people to come back the next day to services where they can hear more from the comedian (their testimony, message, etc.).

Congratulations to the Winner!

We're pleased to announce the winner of our drawing to win a free performance at this year's National Outreach Convention. Michael Pierpoint, the Minister of Evangelism at Magnolia Avenue Baptist Church in Riverside, CA wins the drawing for a FREE performance at his church! Congratulations Michael, we know you'll enjoy your free comedian.

Susan Adams is back!

Event Coordinator Susan Adams has rejoined our team after several months off for medical leave. Be sure to welcome her back next time you catch her on the phone!

Special Comedy Invite for Pastors in So. Calif.
Comedian Thor Ramsey & Outreach Comedy Present... Dana Daniels & Luigi headlining at the Improv's Christian Comedy Night! It's the perfect opportunity to check out an Outreach Comedy Performer! Click here for more info on Dana Daniels & Luigi. Details...

Ontario, CA - Monday 11/22 at 8pm
4555 Mills Cir, 91764; Call for tickets & directions: 909-484-5411

Brea, CA - Tuesday 11/23 at 8pm
120 S. Brea Blvd, 92821; Call for tickets & directions: 714-482-0700

Show admission is $10 for advanced purchase. At the door ticket price will be $15. Family Pack of 4 tickets will be $30.

PASTOR'S SPECIAL!!
Mention Outreach Comedy at the door and recieve admission
at only $7.50 per person.

Featuring Kathy Westfield

It's difficult for a comedian to pick a favorite joke.  They are ALL favorites, that is, if they work!  If I had to pick one I guess my favorites would be:

"It's difficult in these times because we are bombarded by so many things like turning on the watching television.  They have commercials on these days telling us what medications we should tell our doctors to prescribe to us.  Like this one says, "Feeling moody, ask your doctor for this product."  Then they tell us those side affects.  May cause bloating, blotchy skin, hormonal changes and hair loss.  It's scary because I  start out being a thin, little moody,  Black woman and end up being this bald, overweight, white guy."

Click here to read more about Kathy Westfield and watch her video clip!