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Sharon is part of the Newcomers Network in Cromwell, which helps people who are new to the area connect with others. She explains how volunteering plays an important role in this.Volunteering is what "floats my boat', so I encourage all our newcomers to get involved with volunteer activities. Volunteering is an excellent way to connect with other like-minded individuals or wider community causes. The intrinsic rewards (such as the feel good factor) can have a positive influence on all areas of one’s life, especially around mental health and wellness.

We arrange some of our newcomer events around volunteer causes. For example, at Challenge Wanaka, we had a team look after athletes on a section and had heaps of fun doing it. We have supported other community groups with their appeals, such as RSA Poppy Day. We have also involved ourselves in community events like Light up Winter. This year a new event to Cromwell was the Greenway Festival, where every group was asked to run an old-fashioned activity and showcase what their group does. We showcased an international flavour with our newcomers making cultural food samples which we gave away to people who visited our stall. This was our way of promoting and encouraging diversity.As a group, I think we are most proud of our Mucking In Crew. This is when we come together to help fellow newcomers who have experienced adverse events at a time when they don't have the friendship and family networks that have been traditionally available to them. One example of this is a health issue requiring surgery - we will muck in to do practical things like gardening, cooking, or supporting the person during rehabilitation.SharonNewcomers Network Cromwell

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

Phoebe Havill has grown up in Surf Life Saving New Zealand, and spent the last seven summers at the beach as a volunteer lifeguard, keeping beachgoers safe.She is a member of the Onemana Surf Life Saving Club (north of Whangamata), and the Whangamata Surf Life Saving Club, and loves being able to get out into some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery.In December, she was awarded a national award for helping three other lifeguards in the difficult rescue of three kayakers from Whenuakura Island – an island with a hollow centre that the sea can flow into.Phoebe and another lifeguard made a difficult water entry to the island through a surf-washed cave tunnel, checked on the kayakers’ conditions and abilities, reassured them, then helped one make a rock jump into the sea, to be picked up by a waiting inflatable rescue boat (IRB), and then towed the other two back through the sea cave safely.It’s not the first rescue Phoebe’s been part of, and she says the safety awareness and early interventions she does on the beach and water brings her just as much satisfaction as the rescues.

“It’s cool to put our training into practice for rescues, it’s really satisfying afterwards. And preventative actions, like putting up the flags to show where the safe spots to swim are, they’re the same – you know you’re stopping people from getting into danger. It’s a really good feeling to be able to help when we’re needed and to get people home safe at the end of the day.”The 21-year-old originally signed up to the Nippers kids programme when she was six, because a friend had joined.“It looked like fun, and I really loved it, so I continued through and did the lifeguard training at 14 years old, and I’ve done it every summer since then.”Some summer lifeguard patrols are paid shifts, but most of her involvement with Surf Life Saving NZ is voluntary work.Phoebe says being a lifeguard means training, patrolling on the beach most weekends in summer, lifeguarding at events, and plenty of helping out around the club, and stepping up to leadership roles.She also trains other lifeguards and helps run training courses. She has also been taking part in a national leadership development programme with the organisation, called BP Leaders for Life.The programme challenges lifeguards to think of new ideas that could benefit the organisation. Phoebe is proud to be one of a group who identified that fewer women were becoming IRB drivers than men, and so helped launch Wahine on Water – an IRB training programme for women, taught by women — that has so far had nearly 100 people take part.“It’s been really satisfying to see our planning put to action, and to see the trainees get excited about IRBs. I take different opportunities to upskill myself every year – there’s constantly development opportunities available. It’s been great for me for confidence, leadership skills and general people skills, as you’re constantly interacting with people of all ages.”Phoebe encourages anyone to join Surf Life Saving, or sign up to Nippers if they are younger.“Definitely get involved, it’s probably the best thing I’ve ever been involved in. It’s amazing for meeting new people, developing friendships, developing and challenging yourself – there’s so many opportunities to get involved in and pathways to take.”Phoebe Havill Surf Life Saving New Zealand

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

Volunteering in a Gisborne op shop was not something Paul Topp ever imagined doing, but after his life took an unexpected turn, he couldn’t imagine doing anything else.Despite being an experienced quad bike driver, Paul had a freak accident one day while riding — falling into a steep ravine, resulting in severe injuries. Luckily, St John paramedics came to his rescue.It took Paul a long time to recover, and the painful and slow recovery period was difficult for him. He could only spend his days sitting still, whereas before, he had always led an active life and enjoyed the outdoors. Six months after the accident he was hospitalised again with multiple infections and complications from medication.Feeling depressed and isolated, Paul spoke to his GP and ACC worker about his situation. They suggested volunteer work, so Paul contacted the Gisborne Volunteer Centre. The volunteer centre team raised the possibility of giving back to the organisation that had been there for Paul during his time of need, and soon, Paul was helping out in his local St John op shop.

Although it may have been easier to give money, Paul believes giving his time was a more meaningful way to support St John. The profits from St John’s Gisborne op shop go towards local projects like youth programmes, purchasing new ambulances and health shuttles, and buying new equipment, allowing St John to continue its life-saving and life-changing work in the Tairawhiti community.Paul had volunteered before on various committees, but this felt different and more personal.“I felt like part of the team from the first day when I was leaving, and everyone said, ‘See you next Friday!’ They wanted to see me and I wanted to see them. I felt like I belonged there,” he recalls.He describes his shifts as being fun with never a dull moment, quite different from his initial expectations“The team here are so friendly everyone’s happy and enjoys a good laugh. There is a lot of hilarity and we often find items of clothing that we run out and show each other. Especially the retro stuff!”Paul has some words of advice for anyone at home recovering from an accident or medical event.“If you have time, give some time. It certainly won’t hurt you and you’d be surprised by just how much fun and enjoyment you can get from volunteering.”Paul ToppSt John

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

On most days, Merrin Townley is a quiet, shy resident of Russell, Bay of Islands. But twice a week, as she puts on her St John uniform, she metamorphosises into Merrin, passionate, knowledgeable Operational Volunteer for St John.Merrin is a First Responder. She assists the Lead Officer who is either a Paramedic or EMT (Emergency Medical Technician). Her role involves finding out the patients’ medical histories, taking and recording ‘vitals’ (blood pressure, temperature) and driving the ambulance. She volunteers for two shifts a week, 6am - 6pm and 6pm – 6am. Merrin does not have to physically be in the St John Station for this time — she has a pager and responds from home. When the pager goes off she dons her uniform and can be at the station in under eight minutes.Three years ago, Merrin and her partner moved to Russell. It was a quiet first winter, and Merrin didn’t know a soul. She felt she wanted to become part of the community in order to help and meet people.

When she was growing up her ambition was to be a nurse. However, life got in the way (as it often does) and her plans changed. Upon reaching the age of 50, Merrin was persuaded by a friend that the time was right to apply for nursing.She began her application, but in her own words, she “chickened out”. The move to Russell was the kickstart she needed to make her dream come true and she took the bold step of volunteering for St John. After an interview, she walked away feeling really good about it and the people she would be working with.Merrin’s volunteering role began with observation shifts. It was then she knew that this is what she was meant to do. She loved it from the beginning: being part of a team, helping the community, meeting people and learning, learning, learning. At first she was worried – it had been a long time since school. But with support from her mentor and the rest of the St John family, she has successfully completed her ORM (Operational Risk Management), First Aid, Driver training and First Responder course.Merrin absolutely loves her volunteer work, she shines with enthusiasm and confidence when explaining what she does. She described her reward for volunteering as the feeling she had inside when a patient – often scared, worried and in pain - gave her hand a squeeze in gratitude, or she saw the look in their eye when she reassured them, or the heartfelt hug she received from someone unable to express thanks verbally. It was making a little bit of difference to vulnerable people, just being there for them. She never thought in a million years that she was capable of doing this and she gets back tenfold by just giving up a few hours of her time.Merrin said the opportunities within St John are incredible. All the training is paid for. She has just embarked upon an EMT qualification which she is thoroughly enjoying. Merrin believes that life experience has given her compassion and understanding, and age is not a barrier.Merrin summed up her volunteering experience like this: “It’s become my passion, I love it. Everyone at the station is willing to give their time to help you as a volunteer, you are never alone, and it is such a rewarding thing to do. The closest ambulance station would be Kawakawa if it were not for Russell, so volunteers are doing this for the community."Merrin TownleySt John Operational Volunteer

Original story by: Diana Smith, volunteer reporter for Volunteering Northland.

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

Today we are sharing a story from Justine Todd which celebrates KPMG New Zealand's commitment to their community through their employee volunteering student mentoring programme.

At KPMG New Zealand, we are working together to inspire confidence and empower change that has a positive and lasting impact on our communities. Fuelling the prosperity of New Zealand – improving the health, wealth and wellbeing for all New Zealanders – is our common purpose that is fundamental to who we are and what we stand for as an organisation.A commitment to our communities is at the heart of KPMG’s values and culture, and central to our purpose. Our approach to Corporate Citizenship prioritises Sustainable Development Goal #4 - promoting and enabling ‘Quality Education and Lifelong Learning’. Inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all, can help break the cycle of poverty, drive economic growth, inspire the next generation of leaders, and fuel community prosperity in our generation and for generations to come.

The next stage of learning journeys

One of the programmes we’ve developed based on this goal is called Kiwa. It was started by some of our young Māori and Pasifika team members. Kiwa focuses on mentoring for Māori and Pasifika university students interested in learning more about working in the corporate space, however earlier this year they expanded their scope to include a new and special relationship.A team of KPMG KIWA members travelled to the Hawkes Bay in March to visit with Māori and Pasifika Year 12 and 13 students from St Johns College. The visit marked the launch of a new voluntary mentoring partnership with the low decile school for boys based in the heart of Hastings.The mentoring program aims to help Year 12 and 13 Māori and Pasifika students prepare for their last year of school and provide support for students navigating the transition from high school into the next stage of their learning journeys, whether it be tertiary education or finding their first job. For most of these students, they may be the first in their family to consider undertaking tertiary-level studies.The KPMG team had a full day, sharing their own experiences as young teenage Māori and Pasifika school leavers, a goal-setting workshop, a presentation to the school at their assembly and they finished the day with a FiaFia Cultural evening with St Johns’ College’s sister school, Sacred Heart.

A long-term vision

The visit ended with a commitment from both the students and the KPMG visitors to establish a long-term mentoring programme between the KPMG Kiwa volunteers and St. John’s College. With an emphasis on setting goals, nurturing self-belief and academic achievement through virtual meeting and communication with the students, the KPMG mentors aim to empower them by showing them there are many other Māori and Pasifika studying, working and achieving their goals across the country.Following the initial visit, the Year 12 and 13 students were then allocated KPMG mentors who they worked with over the remainder of the year. These matches were based on interests and connections made in the goal setting workshop. The Kiwa mentors use KPMG volunteer leave and their own time to nurture these relationships.Feedback from the school is that having a mentor who is encouraging and supportive has made a huge difference to many of the students in their attitude, work ethic and outlook on their future. To wrap up the programme, a student who has displayed determination, ambition and growth in the pursuit of a higher education, leadership amongst his peers and contribution to his community, has been chosen to receive a $1,500 KPMG award at end of year prize giving.Fuelling prosperity together. Working together. Stronger together. – Justine Todd, Senior Manager, Corporate Citizenship, KPMG.

During National Volunteer Week 2019, we were lucky to have Thuy Tran speak at the launch of our Te Rautaki mō Whanaungatanga: A National Strategy to Support Volunteering for Recent Migrants at Parliament. Thuy was one of the volunteers we spoke to, to help inform our strategy and we were inspired by her speech at the event. To recognise International Volunteer Day 2019 (5 December) we're sharing Thuy's speech, which resonates with the campaign theme 'Volunteer for an Inclusive Future – E whai wāhi ai te katoa, kia tūao te tū'. This theme is focused around SDG 10 and the pursuit of equality – including inclusion – through volunteerism.

Tēnā koutou katoa,

My name is Thuy, a Vietnamese volunteer from English Language Partners New Zealand. It is my honor to be here to join the effort of building a community of peace and sustainability.

I started volunteering in 2004 at a pagoda where nuns offered shelter to disadvantaged children. My university professor - Dan White conducted a project to engage university students in community work. I will forever remember the very first day at the pagoda. There were about 20 children from the age of 0 to 5.

I stood near a hammock where an infant was lying. She was happy, playful, but looked very pale and skinny. She was having a severe case of heart disease and would survive up to only two months. I kept asking myself “Why two months?”. She had no choice in the matter, but I have a choice. I did not know exactly what I could do to help, but I came anyway, and do all I can.

Volunteering has transformed my life

Volunteering has transformed my life, being grateful for a life given and being responsible to what I am offered. Volunteering has brought out the positive pieces in me. The choice to come to NZ was a difficult one when my daughter was just one year old at the time. I had been waiting for this opportunity for 10 years in pursuit of a master's degree at Victoria University of Wellington.

We didn’t know at all what it was going to be like here, so only me and husband came. We arrived in New Zealand in a rush, at the peak time of house hunting and travelling. We did not know anybody here. With a limited budget, we went for more than 40 viewings and none worked out for us. We did subletting and it was two days away from the ending-day. The hotels were full, accommodation lodges were full. Then, I received a phone call from an unknown Vietnamese lady offering us a place. I did not know her, and neither her friends. Till then, I truly understand the importance of networking.

How I can meet new people? how I can connect? The answer was volunteering. I started searching online and decided to join English Language Partners Wellington and I have been loving it. What impressed my husband and me was the welcoming feeling, the positive energy that came to us right away and kept us moving forwards.

Knowing our story, Emma Stein - the programme coordinator introduced us to the Job Mentoring Service and my husband finally found a job after 6 months. Then, we got to know Conservation Volunteer, reaching out to our Vietnamese community, and here we are with Volunteering New Zealand.

It is a great feeling of seeing how people value my feedback, wanting to hear from me, asking how I am doing, and helping me to do the job the best I can. I have learned what it really means “no hierarchy” from the work I am volunteering and embrace it.

We are grateful for the full support of those services. We are very happy with life here when our daughter loves her Victoria Kids School very much as I love my Victoria University. And my husband is very happy with the job he is doing at I-lign Software company and his amazing colleagues.

Now I am joining Job Mentoring Service to seek for a job while continuing to volunteer. In volunteering, I am lifted up through hard times. For every connection has been made, I am empowered.

Together, we strongly support each other in a race that everyone wins and no one is left behind.

He tangata o Aotearoa. Thank you New Zealand for giving us a wonderful adventure.

Tēnā koutou katoa.

• Thuy Tran. June 2019.

This is Thuy's original speech and we thank Thuy for giving us permission to share.Learn more about International Volunteer Day 2019 here

Age is no barrier to volunteering for Kevin O’Brien. Kevin is just short of his 86^th birthday but you wouldn't know it — he is a dedicated volunteer in Ashburton.For sixteen years, Kevin has given his time and talents to St Vincent De Paul. In his role, Kevin is responsible for picking up and delivering furniture from their opportunity shop on Ashburton's Triangle, and he is in charge of the firewood that St Vincent De Paul give to those in need.Kevin’s upbringing and strong faith gave him a good grounding for this work, which involves being there for others and giving them a hand up.

This isn’t Kevin’s first foray into volunteering. Even while farming full time, Kevin volunteered with the Lowcliffe Red Cross, and he is now on the Conservation and Property Committee of Mid Canterbury Catholic Parish.Kevin says he could not do all he does with his volunteering if it wasn't for the support and understanding of his wife Pat — who is also a volunteer for Red Cross. He is quick to point out that he is part of a team of St Vincent De Paul volunteers and more are always needed.Kevin was the first Volunteering Mid & South Canterbury and the Hotel Ashburton Volunteer of the Month. Kevin was nominated by Presbyterian Support, as they really appreciate the support St Vincent De Paul and in particular Kevin, provides to their clients. There is something special about the interweaving that goes on between organisations in the Ashburton District. Organisations in the district work together and because they network, they can weave their services together to provide the most appropriate and helpful support.Kevin O’BrienSt Vincent De Paul

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

There’s no stopping Karen Lee and Nicholas Connop when it comes to rubbish!Karen and Nicholas are two amazing people determined to clean up Whangārei. Karen started the Love Whangārei Monthly Clean Up in October 2017, with Nicholas joining a few months later, as a way to keep the city clean and green. Every month the Love Whangārei Monthly Clean Up team chooses an area in Whangārei, rallies their band of faithful volunteers and gets out there to clean it up.Nick and Karen and a bunch of volunteers take to an area of Whangārei and give it a massive clean-up over a two hour period. During their November Clean Up in Raumanga, they collected over two tonnes of rubbish. This included a full large skip, an additional huge pile of rubbish and a truck load of scrap metal. Sometimes they are called out to fix a problem, such as a mountain of flyers dumped at a local reserve.

The clean up started out with just a few people taking part, but has since grown to a far-reaching and steady group of volunteers ready to keep their own community spaces clean of rubbish, and now has the backing of the local council and mayor. About 30 people take part in each monthly clean up.The Love Whangārei Monthly Clean Up’s parent group, F.O.R.C.E. (For Our Real Clean Environment), is now a fully-fledged charitable trust. The philosophy behind both groups is to undertake, facilitate and inspire solutions to waste, to restore a real clean environment for future generations. So far, they are doing a brilliant job of getting Whangārei clean and green!Original story by Janette Morrison, volunteer reporter for Volunteering Northland.

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

My name is Jenny Pearce and to be honest, I can’t remember when I first starting volunteering at horse events. It just grew from the fact that I really don’t like sitting doing nothing. I have to find something to fill the time between riding my horses at an event.One of my main volunteer positions is as Event Secretary for the Taihape Dressage Champs. This is a national competition run by a very small committee. My job is to coordinate all the competitors, volunteers and officials, making sure everything runs smoothly, but I also like to make sure everyone has fun. Our event is just before Christmas so we have a Christmas theme, with Santa hats for all the volunteers and officials, as well as Santa doing our prizegiving.I am also the Treasurer for the Taihape A&P Association. I started out as the Horse Event Secretary but as the horse numbers dropped, I picked up more and more of the main show duties which has been great and introduced me to more of the logistics of running such a diverse event. From wood chopping to gumboot throwing to ensuring there are enough port-a-loos and rubbish bins, it certainly keeps you on your toes! I think the great thing about these jobs is working with the other volunteers and having fun.

Some of my volunteer positions are a bit more involved. I am the Cross Country Controller for the Horse of the Year event, and in this job I setup and manage a radio network of around 70 people, ranging from jump judges to officials to medics. At times this can be a very intense but I enjoy the challenge of keeping everything running smoothly, especially when you have Olympic level riders and officials that you working with.I love the challenge of a job well done, and it is the small things that count. Making sure that the flowers around are dressage arena are nicely colour coordinated, ensuring all the paperwork is in order and easily understandable, and most importantly, that all the volunteers I have asked to help get a thank box of chocolates or wine or even a Santa hat.At the end of the day there is nothing better sitting with a great bunch of people and discussing what we have achieved and what we can improve upon next year.Jenny PearceTaihape Dressage Champs

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

Christeen is originally from Israel, she moved to New Zealand with her husband and her 3 year old daughter in 2018. Her first step to meet people and get experience on the job was through Multicultural Whangarei, where she was introduced to Volunteering Northland.During her time volunteering with Multicultural Whangarei she has been a great asset to the office not only by sharing her wide administrative/accounting knowledge but also by volunteering in one off time events and participating of workshops like “The Treaty of Waitangi”.

The benefits Christeen gained from volunteering

 Getting to know people and widen her social network Learning more about New Zealand customs and culture Able to practice her English which improved her fluency and confidence on the language New Zealand working experience Had fun and felt good by helping others

Christeen has also showed interest in other administrative volunteering roles after participating of the Volunteering Northland Guided Workshop not long ago, which she really enjoyed. Unfortunately, her situation has changed and due to not having been successful in getting a paid job to support her family, she has decided to go back home.By Nataly Cardoso.Thank you Volunteering Northland for sharing this inspiring story about Christeen. Volunteering New Zealand have produced a National Strategy to Support Volunteering for Recent Migrants, we encourage you all to read it here.

International Volunteer Day (IVDay), 5 December 2019.The theme this year is 'Volunteer for an Inclusive Future - E whai wāhi ai te katoa, kia tūao te tū'.IVDay is an international event run by UN Volunteers and celebrated every year on 5 December. It champions the impact volunteers have in communities, nationally and globally.The campaign theme for IVDay 2019 is focused around SDG 10 and the pursuit of equality – including inclusion – through volunteerism.

This IVDay is an opportunity for us all to promote volunteerism and to encourage decision makers to support volunteer efforts and recognise volunteer contributions to the achievement of an inclusive future. It also an opportunity to recognise volunteer contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals at a local, national and international level.The theme for IVDay 2019 will specifically focus on:- Volunteerism empowering people to participate in their own communities andfostering inclusion- Volunteering promoting inclusion, diversity, non-discrimination- Volunteerism as a mechanism to reduce inequalities in society.Learn more about SDG 10Volunteer for an Inclusive Future! E whai wāhi ai te katoa, kia tūao te tū! #volunteer4inclusion #IVD2019

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Jackie Roos started working in the kitchen at Otago Community Hospice five years ago. She had planned to volunteer for a long time, but seeing an ad in the paper got her through the door.“It was about time that I got my act together and put my effort where my mouth was. I had time, and I really appreciate the concept of hospice.”After several years in the kitchen, Jackie responded to another ad, this time looking for companions for patients.“I could see the need for it. I saw people sometimes being alone, and we all know how very busy the nurses are, so it felt like having companions could fill a gap.”At first, Jackie was worried that she would get too attached. But part of the training and induction was to go through the boundaries that need to be in place and that really helped her adjust.“I found the training sessions really great. They really tested us by going through the kinds of situations we might find ourselves in. There were lots of people involved in the training and there was really great backup and support,” she says. “Once I’d had the training I was busting to get start and make a difference to families and patients.”

After a slow start, Jackie says her “eureka moment” came when she was sitting with an unconscious man while his family took some time out.“His son walked in and I said ‘I’m keeping your father company’. The look on his face showed such massive relief. It was when I realised what a difference a companion could make. I felt like I was doing something really worthwhile.Jackie always manages to find something in common with patients — Dunedin, after all, is a very small place. She says it can take time to find your feet and confidence as a companion, but it’s worth it.“It’s a very varied role; sometimes it’s just making a cup of tea for family members, or going for a walk with a patient who hasn’t been outside for a while, or offering up a bit of distraction, like watching the cricket with a patient. It’s a very rewarding role. And I feel like I’m part of the team.”Jackie Roos Otago Community Hospice

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

My name is Hannah, a born and bred Southlander and teacher aide. Being a volunteer for GirlGuiding is an incredible way to continue learning and give back to the community. The girls are hilarious — they constantly make me laugh, but also help me to see things in a completely different way, which keeps me learning. I love being a role model for the girls, teaching them valuable life skills, as well as teamwork and leadership skills. The GirlGuiding Programme is amazing and it's super easy to follow and implement. You are provided with all the training to develop the skills you need.

Last term we introduced the girls to a part of Southland that they had never seen before and explored a wild cave system. The caves were cool, dark and mysterious, and although we didn't find a pirate's treasure or even a hibernating bear, the girls (and grown ups alike!) saw and experienced things that stimulated their imaginations and curiosity about the natural world. The girls haven't stopped talking about the experience since, and I imagine it will be something everyone will remember for a long time. What I found to be biggest reward about volunteering is it enables you to make a difference in the lives of others, gain confidence and self esteem, feel valued and part of a team, while gaining new skills, knowledge and experiences. The decision to volunteer has been a great one!Hannah RalstonGirl Guiding New Zealand

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

My name is Matt, I’m 22 and have been hanging out with my friend Duncan who I met through the IHC Volunteer Friendship Programme in Wellington for over a year now.The IHC Volunteer Friendship Programme is all about developing genuine friendships between volunteers and a person with an intellectual disability. Friends are encouraged to spend time in their community enjoying activities and hobbies that they’re both interested in together.Duncan and I met in the beginning of 2018 and we haven’t looked back! We like to go out and socialise together over a beer (or two), catch a new release movie – or an old classic, go out for dinner and even just hang out at home and chat. We have such similar interests so it’s easy to find things we both like to do – the hard part is deciding in which order to do them.

Our friendship is something really special we’ve built together over the past year. What was initially an opportunity for me to give back to the community, has helped me find a genuine friend and someone I not only am able to support, but who also supports me. Duncan and I get along terrifically and both feel really comfortable to open up to each other and chat about things we’re going through. It’s not the easiest thing finding someone who you really get along with and trust, so I’m thrilled to have that with Duncan.Over the period of our friendship, I’ve introduced Duncan to some of my other close friends and family – he’s so easy-going and gets along with everyone. He has a real sense of confidence that just radiates off him so it’s been great introducing him to my friends and hanging out as a group. It’s also been great getting to know Duncan’s parents and I enjoyed meeting some of his close friends at his recent 30^th birthday celebrations.I’m so grateful to have a friend like Duncan and the IHC has done an amazing job with matching us together – they’ve helped to create a friendship that will last forever!Duncan and MattIHC Volunteer Friendship Programme

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

Bev Verner volunteers as a Caring Caller for St John in Whitianga. She explains how she got involved and why she enjoys volunteering.Tell us a bit about yourself. I was born in Christchurch but I’ve lived in Whitianga on and off for about 40 years. I’m married and have two children who are all grown up. In 1995 I was diagnosed with Retinitis pigmentosa and I lost my sight in 2002. I have a great guide dog called Fergie, who gives me the independence to go out and about. I’ve been retired for some time and I’m involved in an art group run by Coromandel Independent Living Trust. I have been creating mosaics with tiles for a few years now.Tell us about your volunteer role with St John. I am a St John Caring Caller, which is a free telephone service for people who live alone or feel a bit lonely. I have regular conversations with two ladies who live in different towns. I call one of them every day and the other once a week.

How did you get into volunteering with St John? There was an advert on the radio asking for volunteers for Caring Caller. My daughter heard it and said, “That’s something you can do Mum.” That’s how it all started. I signed up and have been involved ever since. I’ve been volunteering as a Caring Caller for 15 years.Why do you volunteer for St John? This is something that I can do. There are not many things I can do by myself but this is one. Both ladies I call live on their own and I can tell that it helps when I call them. I know that regular phone calls make a difference.What have you gained from being a volunteer? I like being able to help others – I feel satisfied knowing I’m helping other people. It’s about giving back because everybody around me is always helping me.Please share a memorable moment or event in during your time as a volunteer. There have been so many moments when I’ve called someone when they’ve been feeling really down and after talking to them for a while on the phone, they eventually come out of their shell and by the end of the conversation they’re laughing.Would you recommend others volunteer for St John and why? I do recommend volunteering with St John. It’s very satisfying knowing you can help somebody and it really makes a difference.Bev VernerSt John Caring Caller

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.

I’ve had the great honour of volunteering at our local prison for the last two years. This started off sharing some of the practices and tools of yoga, but in the last few months has morphed into sharing the work on mindfulness, as if it had been given wings.It all happened in the Drug Treatment Unit of Mangaroa Prison in Hawkes Bay. I’d recently told the prison that I was only available to help with one yoga series this year.  But these guys, and their eagerness and dedication to continue, were compelling. I talked to them about offering an eight week mindfulness course that I teach. I said it would be demanding and that they would need to advocate for this programme to pull it off.  They did. Along with the fantastic volunteer coordinator, and against many odds due to course requirements and space, we made it happen.To say I have a million words and none at the same time would be true.  It has truly has been a huge gift to my life.The feedback from the men who took part showed the course was highly valued, and the men feel they benefited in different ways, from reducing stress levels and anger to improving sleep and focus.But for me, the success was clear in many subtle ways. I mean, how do you quantify the great courage it takes to look into your own personal darkness - to sit with feelings of deep shame and come out with a different look in your eye? How do you describe how someone that would once enter the room highly agitated, head down, eyes darting, could now be that guy who makes sure everyone else is doing their daily practice? How do you describe someone sharing that they now understand what I meant when I asked them to feel into their future selves — because it is the same feeling he has when he remembers his small son looking up at him?

The volunteer coordinator came to our final closing celebration and award ceremony. The men each stood and spoke. She said she had never heard feedback like it. She wondered how I managed not to cry. The truth is I have cried many times - but at that time I was so very proud of each of the seven men that had the courage and tenacity to stay with this programme.Here are some snippets of the feedback from the men who took part:"This is a mean as course for reducing anger. My focus has improved a lot. I’m listening more and sleeping better. I learnt a lot about myself, being positive and positive affirmations. It has helped me in so many ways and will be part of me for the rest of my life.""This course has helped me settle my mind, notice my thoughts and stop me from reacting. I’ve learnt more at mindfulness than anything else in prison. ""Thank you for your time, wisdom and energy. For someone like me who is a bit ADHD, it’s teaching my brain new ways to process through life. I only wish I had have come to this earlier in my life."

Interactive Volunteer Stories Map

This story was shared as part of our interactive map of volunteer stories from across Aotearoa, which we launched during #NVW2019. This map is filled with stories from volunteers throughout Aotearoa, New Zealand. This map celebrates the contribution of volunteers in their communities throughout Aotearoa. It aims to inspire people to engage in volunteering, Mahi Aroha and social action and to realise the benefits of weaving their communities together through their actions.