Did you know audience research is the biggest and most important part an advertising project? Advertisers like McDonald's know more about you than your own mother. They know how many sesame seeds you like on your buns as well as how many beverage cup holders you want in a new van. They even know what videos you like to watch and if your mother likes to collect beanie babies.

Why do advertisers gather all that info? Well, the more they know about you, the better they are able to reach you with their message. But don't let the advertisers get the upper hand in research.

Here's a great way to gather the info you need about teens as well as create a book just about them. Create a Homie Pages Directory.

All you need is a three ring binder, some clear acetate sleeves, and a "Homie Pages" questionnaire that you hand out to each teen (there's a free download at the end of this page). Start off with questions you need to know about your teens, including their address, phone number, guardian, and names of brothers and sisters. Then, ask questions about the stuff teens want to know about each other. For instance, what's their favorite junk food, favorite TV show, their dreams, fears, etc. Their answers will also help you stay in touch with what's hot and what's not with teens. Also include a place for them to put their photo and autograph.

As the year goes by, add pages with highlights from outings to their viewpoints on certain issues. Save your Homie Pages over the years and bring them to every meeting. Teens like to look at the pictures and read about each other.

Download a free Homie Pages Template. It's two pages long. Download it, but when you copy it, save yourself paper by making it a double sided copy. That way, each teen has their own page in the Homie Pages.

Yes, the Homie Pages download is reproducible.

Homie Pages are a fun way to keep track of your teens. Use the free download below in your outreach program.

Want some more ideas for urban youth ministry? Click Here