MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS



ACMA exists to bring a professional standard to Children's Ministry.  This is done by establishing a membership that consists of individuals who uphold a high standard of excellence in their personal and professional life.  Therefore, members must meet the following criteria.


  1. BulletExperience (excluding internships)

  2. BulletOne year as a compensated *Children’s Minister & Ordained and/or Licensed or

  3. BulletOne year as a compensated *Children’s Minister & Bible College Degree or

  4. BulletFour years as a compensated *Children’s Minister

           

  1. *Definition of Children’s Minister: Currently ministering directly to children and/or training others to minister to children


  2. BulletLetter of Recommendation - Ministry Supervisor or Senior Pastor must submit a letter verifying applicant is currently fulfilling the Membership Requirements (submit via FAX, mail, or email - member@acmaonline.org)


  1. BulletSubject to a National Background Check


  1. BulletAgree with the ACMA Statement of Faith


  1. BulletAbide by the ACMA Standards of Excellence for Children's Ministers (below)


  1. BulletSubmit the printable Membership Membership Application.pdf and $79 annual fee (credit card, check or money order)



Note:  When determining the Membership Requirements, we understood there might be circumstances that needed to be evaluated individually.  If you feel you are qualified for membership in ACMA, but do not meet the criteria, please submit an email defining your experience for the Board to review.



ACMA Standards of Excellence for Children's Ministers


ACMA is made up of Children’s Ministers who have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior and uphold a standard of excellence in their ministry and personal life. ACMA promotes that its members should exemplify the following standards in their life.


Personal Growth

Leads personal life with the Word of God and prayer while in healthy relationships with other believers; prioritizes God, family and ministry appropriately


Ministry Leadership

Practices teaching skills which lead children to salvation and growth in Christ; builds relationships with kids, parents, volunteers and paid staff; implements effective safety and security procedures; recruits, motivates and trains volunteers; relates well to authority; manages time productively; shares vision of the church; serves as a resource to parents, children’s workers, children, and the church-at-large; models godly leadership


Professional Development

Seeks to grow professionally through means such as studying, networking, conferences, continuing education and mentorship



Membership Application.pdf


BENEFITS OF ACMA MEMBERSHIP



Being a member of ACMA entitles you to benefits that will assist you both in your ministry and personal life.  ACMA will continue to offer an expanding array of benefits.  Through these benefits, you will have the opportunity to save money, further your education, and network with other professionals in Children’s Ministry.


For questions about member benefits, please contact Michelle Romain, Association Director, at member@acmaonline.org or 859-519-8055.




ACMA Certified


ACMA Members are part of a professional group of Children's Ministers.  Members will
receive an ACMA certificate to display their membership in a professional association.  In addition, members and their church may use the ACMA logo to accredit official documents.

                                                               



Ministry Resources


  Members receive a one-year subscription to K! Magazine, the leading magazine for Children’s Ministers.  K! Magazine is a publication addressing the needs of those who minister to kids in the church. It contains specialized articles and features on everything from leadership to using trends in our world to help children’s ministers make a deep ETERNAL IMPACT!  This is a $19.95 value!                                                                                                                       




Connections and Networking


Members have the opportunity to join in ACMA Local Chapters. These chapters will offer the ability for members to network and receive relevant topics of discussion from the ACMA Board.




Resources


Collaborate:  Family + Church New members will receive a copy of the incredible new family ministry book by Michael Chanley and 34 Children’s Ministry



ACMA Information


ACMA members will receive ACMA news, updates, Board member blogs and more via email.




Educational Opportunities


  ACMA offers members continuing education through Children’s Ministry University Online (CMUO), an online training program of Valley Forge Christian College, at discounted rates.  The admission fee will be waived for ACMA members.



  ACMA members receive a $200 discount on Infuse, Jim Wideman’s six-month mentoring experience for Children’s Pastors and Leaders.


 

Discounts


Save money with your membership by receiving association discounts:


  1. BulletInsurance – Receive discounted rates on various insurance policies (see Insurance below)

  2. BulletEducational Training – Receive discounted rates on Bible College Courses and more (see Educational Opportunities above)

  3. BulletMinistry Resources – Members receive discounts on valuable ministry resources:

  4. BulletBig City Studio Curriculum from Kidz Blitz - New or renewing members:  Receive 2 quarters FREE

  5. BulletPureconnect Career Services - 10% discount

  6. BulletChildren’s Ministry University Online - No registration fee

  7. BulletYancy Merchandise - Free shipping

  8. BulletD6 Conference - Save $20 off Registration (Offer ends July 15)




Insurance Benefits


Beginning in 2011, members can apply for insurance benefits at group rates. Policies available include guaranteed issue life insurance and critical illness. 



ACMA Meetings


The ACMA Board will hold association meetings at selected conferences nationwide throughout the year.  Members have the opportunity to personally meet with Board members and network with other association members.

 

American Children's Ministers' Association

5028 Ashgrove Road, Nicholasville, KY 40356

phone 859.519.8055 | fax 859.264.1673 | Facebook.com/ACMAFanpage



Children’s Ministers choose to belong to ACMA because of the professional esteem and standards it provides, as well as the variety and quality of membership benefits.  ACMA provides many opportunities for its members to be successful in their professional needs and their plan for lifelong ministry.


ACMA impacts and helps shape the profession of Children’s Ministers.  As a member of ACMA, you are part of a group of individuals who are experienced and professional in Children’s Ministry.

WHY  BE A MEMBER OF ACMA?