Target Areas
A Target Area (TA) is a way to describe a subset of campus. We’re asking leaders to choose a Target Area.
Why Target Areas?
1. FOCUS
Target Areas keep us focused on the needs and barriers of a particular group. It breaks down an insurmountable goal (How do I reach the campus?) into a more manageable chunk (How do I reach the MSU Baseball team?)
2. Intentional
Target Areas give us meaningful ways to be intentional in our efforts. Intentionality drives our locations, times, methods and message. We will likely reach a fraternity differently than we’ll reach an athletic team.
3. Coordination
Target Areas allow our movements to coordinate for maximum reach and maximum synergy. We can see more happen if two leaders aren’t targeting the same res hall or the same sports team. We can also see more happen if a group targeting a sorority house helps another group also reaching a sorority. Reach and Synergy.
4. Creativity
Target Areas propel us into creativity and ingenuity. They force us to consider solutions to road blocks and strategies for specific situations. Instead of looking for an audience to fit our method, we look for methods to fit our audience.
Q: So why not just share with my friends?
A: Please do! We find that most people do not have enough non-Christian friendships to sustain a semester’s worth of ministry. You will need a larger TA than simply your list of friends.
Q: So why not just minister to those around me?
A: Please do! The Lord will continue to put people in your path, which is great. There is benefit to taking a larger section of campus than simply those you’re around. Making yourself the center of your TA can have drawbacks, too.
Q: So why not just reach the whole campus?
A: We share this goal! Target Areas allow our movement to take specific steps in that direction. TAs promote accountability and creativity, that we might be more effective as a whole, and to minister in more helpful ways around campus.
Q: So will I be forced to minister to people I don’t really care about?
A: No. There are so many Target Areas you can choose from. We hope that God continues to give you compassion and love for those on campus, and we’re eager to help you reach out where your heart is.
Q: How do I pick a Target Area?
A: There are lots of factors to consider. The following page has a helpful tool.