Prize Surprises: Lockins on the Move

The Surprise:

This program is not a complete surprise, but can have unknown elements to keep interest up. In short, it is a overnight Lockin that doesn't stay locked in. Instead, every hour or two, all night, the lockin changes location and/or activity.

Lockins are generally popular with most groups, but are also, more often than not, really boring. A Lockin on the Move, livens things up for everyone and removes "free time," as well as making it easier for adults to stay alert.

How to do the Surprise:

Plan in advance to work out a schedule of events that covers the night. This may take some research or creativity for the wee hours of the morning, but there are always possibilities. After lining up the activities, begin publicizing the lockin, including at least some of the special activities as teasers for those not particularly attracted to plain lockins.

Make sure that you have adequate supervision and transportation. If the youth need any particular items for any of the events, or any spending money, be sure to list these in the publicity.

One minor but important detail for events in smaller communities or neighborhoods, call and warn the Police what will be happening. They will appreciate the advance notice that the "gang" roaming the street that night are actually a well supervised group of church kids (hopefully).

Some possible activities:

0. A Mall scavenger hunt
1. Late night Pizza
2. Visit an airport
3. Bowling
4. Rent a Video Arcade for after closing time
5. Visit/work at a Night Shelter
6. Visit the Police department or an Emergency room
7. Visit a 24 hr business or factory
8. Midnight movie
9. Visit a rock band's practice session
10. Visit a Safe (?) and scenic view of the city
11. Early morning donuts
12. Visit Someone's farm - doing their early morning chores with them
13. Serve Breakfast at a night shelter or food kitchen
14. Watch the sunrise from the roof of the church or other high place

Problems and Pitfalls:

Be sure to have some backup plans in case there needs to be a last minute change. Some of the options mentioned may have emergency situations come up that eliminates the possibility of your bringing your group that particular night. Communications at some of the situations listed are also erratic and may breakdown - you arrive expecting to be expected and the people there haven't a clue as to who you are and why you are there. Having a couple of optional activities plus the equipment and ideas for games and a program back at the church is always a good idea.

Some activities may take you into less comfortable areas of the city, or more unsettling settings, therefore it is important that everyone have a sense of security throughout the night. Having adequate adult leadership is essential. Also, be sure to warn kids (and parents) of any potentially controversial items.

Be clear in the publicity that the group will be active all night long. Some people come to lockins assuming that they can sleep enough for the their soccer match the next day.

As with all lockins - be strict about no one coming late or leaving early without parental permission and a "hand off" of responsibility.

Publish an itinerary with phone numbers to leave with parent or guardians. Leaving a contact person or at least messages on the church answering machine is an especially good idea.

Variations:

0. Have the lockin in another town
1. Trade Lockins on the Move with another church from another community
2. Add a theme that ties everything together
3. Make it a part of a confirmation program and concentrate the activities on service and learning.