NZ Blood Service Support Volunteers
NZ Blood Service is the SOLE provider of blood products to hospitals in New Zealand.
(NZBS) is excited to launch an additional mobile blood drive team to service Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki, and Franklin area’s that will more than double the opportunities to donate and the frequency of visits by the Service in these areas.
“We are thrilled to be adding additional mobile blood drives to these regions. We know the need for blood and plasma are constant, and demand in New Zealand for these lifesaving products will keep growing. With the additional mobile blood drives, we have the opportunity to recruit more people to join our amazing donor community,” says Doug Gallagher, Director of Donor Services – New Zealand Blood Service. “Across New Zealand nearly 50% of all whole blood donations are donated via a mobile blood drive. It is a safe and easy way to collect blood in many parts of the country.”
The additional mobile blood drive team, which is based out of the NZBS’s Hamilton Donor Centre, will be part of a service that visits key areas across the central North Island. The mobile drive will be visiting New Plymouth, Napier, Rotorua, and Pukekohe each on a monthly basis. All of these locations have been carefully chosen based on logistical, resource, and population factors, including current donor numbers and potential future growth in the areas.
Donors in these areas, existing and new, will have more appointment options, making it easier for them to donate regularly. With over 30,000 Kiwis needing lifesaving blood, plasma, and platelets each year, every donation counts.
Selecting the ideal region to add additional mobile blood drives has not been an easy one. As Doug explains, “while we would like to visit as many towns in New Zealand as possible, the reality is there are a lot of factors to consider to make these mobile blood drives viable. We need to know that the areas we choose can support a monthly blood drive and we also need to consider how we can efficiently get the blood collected back to one of our processing laboratories.”
NZBS needs to collect over 4,000 donations every week nationally, however less than 4% of the eligible adult population currently donate.
One blood donation can be separated into three components for transfusion–red blood cells, plasma and platelets– which can save up to three lives.
Volunteers are an integral part of NZBS and they help to enhance the experience of donating blood by providing each and every blood donor with excellent customer service. And are counted on to contribute towards making the experience of donating blood an exceptional and positive one.
Working as a volunteer for NZBS will give you a sense of belonging, pride and satisfaction as you assist in providing an essential community service.
NZBS are seeking volunteers from a cross section of the local community to help out when the mobile service is here in New Plymouth
If you have some spare time we would appreciate your help. Time commitment is maximum of 3 - 4 hours per shift and if enough people sign up then a roster with be developed so that you can confirm your times well in advance.
Due to this being within the Health sector there is a requirement for volunteers to be both Police Check and Fully Vaccinated.
Come help us save lives
Please register your interest by contacting Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986; Ph / Txt 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz
Taranaki Base Hospital Te Whatu Ora – Meet and Greet Volunteers:
Many of us have known our local hospital as Taranaki Base Hospital, it is now known as Te Whatu Ora – Health New Zealand which is the new national organisation delivering health care services across Aotearoa New Zealand.
People visiting the buildings now via David Street probably are quite confused about where to go and possibly not sure which entrance to use – there are 4 currently.
1) The main entrance by the Emergency Department
2) The red path entrance from the main carpark (accessed via Lyn Street)
3) Tukapa Street entrance (By Oncology)
4) The Maternity entrance (accessed via David Street)
Due to the ongoing construction of buildings this will continue to be a challenge for people and to help make the visit a little easier there are Meet & Greet Volunteers who are doing an amazing job in helping direct people to where they need to go in the building.
Because of the expansion of the building there is an increased demand for the Meet & Greet Volunteers so there are some spaces available in the roster pool of volunteers providing this valuable service.
This project has been running for a number of years now and has proved to be very successful.
So now the time has come to seeking extra volunteers to add to their very popular “Meet and Greet” team. These volunteers in their smart grey tops are there to greet visitors and patients alike.
The Hospital can be a confusing place and overwhelming space to navigate your way around and these valued volunteers help to make everyone’s visit a lot less stressful.
The values that are being looked for include;
A warm and friendly personality,
Good communication skills,
Reliability and commitment
Being comfortable approaching people to offer assistance.
Duties include:
Greeting visitors and patients,
Directing and assisting people to their destination,
Providing information about the hospital
Sometimes just being there offer comfort and conversation.
Volunteers are placed on a roster that works in with their busy lives. The roster is a Monday to Friday and two shifts of three (3) hours each – so a morning or afternoon shift-
Orientation and training to offer support in a number of ways – such as getting a wheelchair, ordering a taxi, offering a word or two of comfort and advice or just pointing people in the right direction and on-going support will be offered so please contact us today. Your community needs you!
Volunteers are placed on a roster that works in with their busy lives. The roster is a Monday to Friday and two shifts of three (3) hours each – so a morning or afternoon shift- so if you are keen to join then contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, Ph/Txt 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz, she will be delighted to hear from you and help you take the next step
Volunteer Visitors - South Taranaki Area
Age Concern is a charitable organisation dedicated solely to people over 65. Their mission is to promote the dignity, wellbeing, equity and respect of our elderly community, and provide expert information and support services in response to older people's needs.
Thankfully, the majority of older people are not severely lonely, but findings from The Social Report 2016 showed that 10% of New Zealanders aged 65-74, and 13% of those aged over 75, feel lonely all, most, or some of the time. We know social connection is so important though; research has found that having inadequate social relationships can be as bad for health as smoking, and that loneliness is linked to an increased likelihood of entering rest home care. This is why Volunteer Accredited Visitors and the time they dedicate to older people is so valuable.
Age Concern Taranaki are looking for caring volunteers who can commit to visiting an older person regularly, usually requiring 1-2 hours per week.
The Accredited Visiting Service coordinator will match a volunteer with an older person who shares similar interests, who they can share stories or do activities with, while enjoying each other’s company. Current volunteers have said that they enjoy the opportunity to get to know their older person, and that they benefit and learn from the experience too.
This role involves face-to-face visits with the understanding that if you or your older person feel uncomfortable with in-person visiting at any time, you may switch to phone calls or zoom/facetime communication (depending on the recipient’s ability).
There are protocols for in-person visits and of course, do not visit if you are unwell. These will be explained during the orientation training session.
Volunteers will need to undergo an interview and police vetting (which can take up to 6 weeks) so we are seeking registrations of interest now.
Following an interview and police check, if you are accepted to the service, you will be given orientation training and then matched with an older person. Once you have visited for six months you will receive your visitor accreditation.
If you have a warm and friendly manner and enjoy spending time with older people, please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, Ph/Txt 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz , so that she can register your interest to help.
Call today to join the local volunteer visitor team and make a real difference in someone’s life. Wendy is waiting to hear from you.
Autism Connex is local and has many local well-known families involved. They are an awesome team of people who are involved mainly originally because they saw a need in our community for people like themselves who have young people who are living with ASD.
The mission of the organisation is to support, empower, and celebrate families on the journey. The vision is to extend existing services and provide an Autism care centre based in New Plymouth.
Autism Connex is all about CONNECTING with families, families who have children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) doing life together. They aim to create an environment where parents are celebrated. A place where children of all ages are happy, safe and where all behaviours are accepted.
Autism Connex get together monthly and it is a time where families are celebrated, supported and encouraged. Currently this is held in the Fred Tucker Hall 130 Parklands Ave, Bell Block monthly on a Saturday afternoon between 2 – 4pm.
Volunteers are required to help set up the quiet room and the general play area prior to this or set us the parent room (where afternoon tea is provided to the family in a beautiful relaxing, friendly environment which is an open and safe space for adults to share openly and gather knowledge from others on a similar journey. This is a free and fun event held for families who have lived experience with Autism
There is also an opportunity to be part of the afternoon where you could assist with the supervision of the play areas. There are three areas – as there is also an outdoors area (on fine days)
Volunteers are key to providing a fun, safe, and inclusive environment for families. They would really appreciate your time – any time that you have available to support this amazing group
The monthly Autism Connex Family Day is growing and growing. To keep things operating smoothly, they are on the lookout for individuals with a heart for people and our community, who are willing to jump on board and serve with the current incredible volunteer team
The group is growing steadily, with more than 80 families currently registered.
New people are welcome and there are no judgements of behaviours as they believe in “encouraging and supporting you wherever you are in your journey”. They have a safe, non judgemental environment for children of all ages and capabilities.
They are passionate about supporting more families, and are fundraising for a purpose-built facility
VOLUNTEER WITH AUTISM CONNEX!
They are particularly on the lookout for:
** People willing and able to help prepare and set up afternoon tea (we provide a fully equipped kitchen to serve & all the food).
** People who love working alongside children with disabilities and complex needs, particularly autism.
** People who can commit to being rostered on once a month
If you are not sure but want to just check it out first then contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, text / phone 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz she will be delighted to hear from you and help you take the next step
Also Check out the Autism Connex Facebook page for event information, support, and celebration.
Office Gems
Volunteering New Plymouth was established in 2002.
The main purpose of Volunteering New Plymouth is to assist ‘not for profit’ community groups in recruiting and retaining volunteers and to offer ongoing support to all community organisations and their volunteers. To do this we offer our service as a preferred point of contact for all volunteers and community agencies. We provide information about opportunities for volunteering, we raise community awareness of the importance of the work that is undertaken by volunteers, we organise recognition awards, we advocate on behalf of volunteers and community organisations at a local and national level, and we provide a channel where resources can be shared, particularly in the training of volunteers and their coordinators/managers.
We have a website that has volunteer roles that are currently available – these are being updated all the time. This service we now believe needs a tweak and therefore we are looking to offer a more personalized service. To do this we realize we need help to effectively achieve this.
Also, we have become increasingly busier and will continue to do so with the many changes that are in the planning stages; so we will have other volunteer roles available too.
These roles are great because of their flexibility, so if you are thinking “I would like to do some volunteering like this – BUT – I want to spend time with family or travel and I don’t want to have to think about getting someone to replace me on my shift” – then this could be a role for you;
How can you help?
There are many ways and often it starts with a phone call, text or email.
We are looking for people who will fit into our small team.
Currently we have one volunteer who comes in once a week to do shredding and odd jobs.
We are looking to expand this and hoping to find people who would be available once a week on a Tuesday or Thursday or if they choose could work remotely.
The roles that are currently on offer are:
There will be a script and just a couple of questions that require answers.
We offer:
**A supportive, friendly work environment
**Training delivered by us and outside providers
These roles will suit:
* Those keen to consider one or more of these options:
* Obtain customer service skills experience
* Flexible hours - available during these hours 9am – 2.30pm - for a couple of hours - negotiable
* Looking to obtain work experience
* Keen to give back to the community
* Learn new skills or gain confidence in using recently developed skills
* Looking to meet new people
We will require:
Police Check & a referee
If you are keen to find out more then please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, text / phone 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz. She will be delighted to hear from you and help you take the next step.
Seasons for Growth - Companion Volunteers
The Seasons for Growth Program (grief and loss education and support) runs education programs to support 6–18-year-olds who have experienced a loss or change in their family through death, parental separation or divorce, migration, imprisonment, fostering, relationship break-down or any similar significant change.
Small groups of 3-6 participants, facilitated by screened, trained and police vetted adult volunteers, known as Companions, meet once a week, for an hour, for 8 weeks, for activities and discussion on topics including change, feelings, personal stories, and self-care.
Groups run throughout Taranaki each school term and the region is currently recruiting volunteers to train as Companions for 2023.
Important personal attributes include:
Training is being planned to run over two days on a Friday – Saturday or Saturday – Sunday in March / April (dependent on Volunteers) and is the Children’s and Young Peoples Programme.
Groups run throughout Taranaki during each school term and in 2022 there were 190 youngsters & parents participated in a group somewhere in the province.
If you are curious to learn more and /or you are interested in becoming a Companion please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or Phone / Text 022 571 4228 to take the next step.
Do you want to be the next Saturday Star?
Taranaki Toy Library Trust is a member of the Toy Library Federation of New Zealand that actively promote play as being essential to the educational, physical, psychological, social, and cultural development of children. The local library is situated in Fitzroy and is run by a couple of coordinators with the help of permanent session helpers and some parents who help occasionally, alongside a committee and trustees. Who are dedicated to promoting play, playthings and playful interaction to children in our local community. It is a place where there is access to over 1700 quality toys that can be borrowed on a regular basis by the members at minimal cost. This is a lovely environment with other good people who are interested in helping our little people have a variety of play options without the great capital outlay and better for our environment.
A new Volunteer is required, (as the current helper is becoming the new Saturday coordinator) for about two and a half hours a week on a Saturday morning between 9.30 am and 12 noon. Or it could be every 2nd Saturday.
You could be a fit retiree, stay at home parent who would like to stay connected to the workforce and have some baby-free time while supporting our community or anything else!
As a permanent helper, you will mainly be checking the returned toys. This role involves confident reading and counting, good customer service skills together with attention to detail and of course you will enjoy being around children. Computer literacy would be a bonus but not essential.
All training is provided and a super friendly team of 8 other long-term helpers – Lots of the regular helpers stay for years (Regular volunteers are considered for an honorary membership to borrow toys after helping for a while).
To find out more and start the conversation then I would encourage you to contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, or phone or text 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz so that she can register your interest to help.
Taranaki Cathedral Gardener
Taranaki Cathedral – Church of St Mary’s New Plymouth. This is a very well know historic site with much happening in the grounds. However, the grounds around the historic church building and the cemetery / urupā are being maintained as usual. This is not a role that requires hard landscaper skills, but general gardening interest.
If you know a plant from a weed and have some spare time on either the 1st or 3rd Wednesday morning, or both, consider joining the gardening group.
Or if those times don't suit, we would still love to have you on board.
A basic idea of gardening. Good level of physical ability. Commitment and enthusiasm.
Able to show initiative re gardening work and good communication is appreciated; together with an understanding and appreciation for working alongside others
If you would like to know more and or like to meet someone to talk about the possibilities / or put your name forward please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or Phone / Text 022 571 4228 so that she can put you on the list of interested potential volunteers.
Waitara & New Plymouth Community Micro Volunteering
Have you ever thought about volunteering?
Do you know how to start or where to start?
Do you have some time that you could offer a community group?
Do you have a few hours a week or a fortnight or even a month?
Do you just want to check out something without committing?
CAN YOU HELP? Currently we have several Organisations that are looking for people to help for various activities - it might be that they are looking for someone to help once a month for a couple of hours. There are also some events that are a one off - that we would love to have you on our Volunteer list to contact when we get a call at short notice.
Benefits of Volunteering
1) Connects you to others - one of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to commit to a shared activity.
2) Is good for your mind and body - helps counteract the effects of stress, anger and anxiety. Can combat depression and increase confidence and make you happy.
3) Can advance your career - you can try out a new careers without making a long term commitment
4) Brings fun and fulfillment to your life - this is an easy way to explore your interests and passions.
There are many roles that do not require specific skills prior to starting; in fact, the most valuable assets that you can bring to any volunteer effort are compassion, an open mind, a willingness to pitch in wherever needed and a positive attitude.
If you have always thought of volunteering but were afraid to, because you wanted to have flexibility to visit family, travel, study, or work - think about looking at bite size volunteering - this is the way volunteering is evolving.
There is now also micro volunteering - yes that is even smaller than bite size and that can be something like writing Christmas cards for the lonely or responding to a survey.
Do any of these sound like something that you would like to dip your toes into and look at? Or a little daunting, or an exciting opportunity?
If you would like to know more and or like to meet someone to talk about the possibilities / or put your name forward please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, Email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or Phone / Text 022 571 4228 so that she can put you on the list of interested potential volunteers.
Taranaki Cancer Society: Hawera Volunteer Receptionist Positions
The Taranaki Cancer Society provides leadership and advocacy in health promotion, support, information and research. The Society has been operating in Taranaki for the past 80 years in a modern, eco-friendly centre in New Plymouth and now in an office in Hawera. They are looking for several receptionists to support the staff in the Hawera office. You can volunteer for a morning a week or fortnightly or talk about your availability to support the great service that is being offered.
Cancer is now the leading cause of death in New Zealand. As we grow older, the likelihood of developing cancer increases.
Each year in Taranaki, there are over 600 people diagnosed with cancer.
Every day the team at Cancer Society help people with any cancer, their families, whanau and friends to deal with a cancer diagnosis. They advocate for cancer patients, provide a voice on all kinds of issues, including cancer prevention, screening, early detection and treatment as well as supporting people during treatment.
This is done through the wide range of core services in supportive care, information and local support groups and connecting people online. They also develop and run community health promotion and cancer prevention programmes to keep people informed.
Purpose of this Receptionist Role:
The work is usually performed at the front office desk to receive and greet any visitors, and patients, and to answer telephone calls. However, there will be other tasks throughout the centre.
Expected results:
To have volunteers covering our reception during all office hours. – shifts are available for a morning or afternoon shift Tuesday to Thursday – opening hours are 10am to 3pm So if you have a morning or an afternoon available once a week or if you would like to be the person who they contact if they are needing someone to fill in, that would also be great.
Specific skills/education required:
Are you Positive and friendly with an outgoing nature?
Are you able to maintain confidentiality?
Are you a team worker who is calm and confident?
Are you also honest, trustworthy, reliable and punctual?
Are you someone who is Computer literate with key board skills?
SO:
If you just want to get out and about to enjoy the company of some great people and help the community at the same time and this sound like something you would like to do? Then please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06758 8986 / 022 571 4228 or
email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz. She is keen to hear from you.
GIRLGUIDING NZ Taranaki - Leadership Opportunity
Here is an absolutely fabulous opportunity for fun loving, artistic or sporty volunteers from all backgrounds of life and with skills to share, to step up and become Leaders for Girl Guiding Taranaki.
Are you passionate about providing girls and young women opportunities to build resilience, confidence and a strong sense of identity? Are you available for one of the following:
Inglewood Thursdays 6.30pm-8.30pm for Guides
Merrilands (New Plymouth)- Thursdays 3.30pm- 4.30pm for Pippins, 4.45pm-6.15pm for Brownies, 6.30pm-8.30pm for Guides or 7.30pm-9pm for Rangers
Westown (New Plymouth)- Wednesday 6.30pm-8.30pm for Guides.
These are all during term time only.
Then read on…
We want more good people to come and do great things with us. Join our passionate and supportive team in a well-established, long-standing organisation with growth potential.
We love what we do which is why we work so hard to ensure that we provide great opportunities for our girls. In this volunteer role you will be a part of a team who provide a fun, challenging and exciting programme which enables girls to achieve the awards in the girl programme and meet the mission and vision of the organisation.
You will also help facilitate opportunities for girls to contribute to the planning of future programmes and activities and ensure that there is a strong girl voice in the unit and that girls are heard and listened to.
Contribute to a respectful culture in the unit with regard to leading girls and appreciating their individuality. Participate in the successful planning and delivery of local team events and activities.
Communicate effectively with parents regarding the programme, their daughter’s achievements, and opportunities for their involvement with activities.
Join a community of passionate volunteers across New Zealand. Full training and ongoing support provided.
To find out more and start the conversation then I would encourage you to contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986 or phone / text 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz so that she can register your interest to help and get ready for next year.
New Plymouth Community Patrol
What an awesome team. They were one of 4 teams recognised at Volunteering New Plymouth Annual Volunteer Recognition Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Contributions to the local Community in 2018
New Plymouth Community Patrol (NPCP) is one of 150 community patrols throughout New Zealand affiliated to the Community Patrols of New Zealand (CPNZ) and has been operating since 2010.
The Community Patrols are organised and operated locally and are funded through local grants, sponsorship, and donations. They work closely with and are hugely respected by the Police and are 'the extra eyes and ears' that assist the Police and other agencies to build a safer community for us all. They are independent from the Police, but receive regular Police guidance, training, and tasking.
This award-winning team is looking to add new volunteer members, so that they have more people to cover the rostered shifts. There is great training and support, and you are always paired up to go out on patrol. There are shifts during the day and in the evening and weekends too - so there are options for you to time your volunteering around your lifestyle. This can be a steppingstone into joining the Police - it can give you an insight into how and why prevention works. It can also be a rewarding activity if you have life experience and want to give back.
If you think you have what it will take to join the team or just want to learn more, please feel free to contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or phone / text 022 571 4228 to learn more.
Meals on Wheels:
New Zealand Red Cross – Taranaki Branch:
New Zealand Red Cross delivers over 15,000 meals on wheels to the house-bound and elderly throughout New Plymouth District every year. This number has continued to increase over the last few years and with the recent retirement of some of the long serving volunteers it means that there is an urgent need for new volunteer drivers for this essential service.
The Inglewood Branch has around 20 drivers that deliver meals five days a week. Not only does the service provide a nourishing meal for their clients but the volunteer drivers provide many of the recipients with the security of knowing they will have some daily contact with others, which many of them lack.
You do not need to make a large commitment as you will be put on a rooster that suits the time you have available. Generally, you have the roster for a month - 1 day (the same day) per week the start time for this service is 11.30am and usually takes till approximately 12.30pm depending on the number of meals being delivered. Inglewood is quite small, so it does not take too long to deliver to all those receiving these meals. If there are a couple of you one can drive and the other can deliver and it takes less time of course.
If you have always thought about volunteering - but thought that you couldn't because you were travelling a lot or have the grandchildren or you have children, and they are at school, and you have a couple of hours in the middle of the day to spare and would like to help - this could be that opportunity. It could be for just 4 – 5 hours every couple of months or even on the emergency drivers list. Drivers are reimbursed at a set rate per meal to assist with costs.
There is a requirement for a Police Check for these roles and this does take several weeks to process and be returned - so if you are not available immediately and you are interested in helping out with this rewarding role or if you are curious to learn more please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or phone or text 022 571 4228 to have a conversation about options and start the process. She is waiting for your call.
Social Media Support
Our community organisations / groups are needing to be more social media aware and many of us are in the older age bracket and have dabbled in Facebook and perhaps a little on Instagram or LinkedIn – however to be able to effectively provide the ever-changing social media coverage that we need to offer our community we are seeking help.
In my meetings with the many Organisations/ groups that we are working with I am frequently asked for someone who can help with social media and all the different aspects of this media
We at Volunteering New Plymouth would love to have a person who is available to support us to increase our social media presence, to establish a media plan to support our current small postings and to help us increase our reach of options in an ongoing and sustainable way.
Currently we are active on Facebook and have a twitter account (not active). We are interested learning more about how we can make best and most effective use of both these media and investigate other media to be effective in getting the volunteering message out to a variety of potential volunteers.
The above role will require only a few hours a week/month and is flexible.
Also I have a couple of organisations in need of people with any of the following
knowledge / skills -:
Parts of these can be done from home and are flexible; while others need you to be working at the organisation for part of the time and / or have preferred hours and days – due to staff availability.
If you think you may like to check one or more of these opportunities out then please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, text / phone mobile 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz to take that next step, and discuss with her your skills and the potential options, she is keen to hear from you.
Citizens Advice Bureau
The Citizens Advice Bureau is a branch of a national organisation Citizens Advice Bureau New Zealand (CABNZ), This organisation is dedicated to providing all members of our New Zealand community with independent help and support on any matter that they may require.
The aims of CABNZ are to:
1) Ensure that individuals do not suffer through ignorance of their rights and responsibilities, or of the services available, or through an inability to express their needs effectively.
2) Exert a responsible influence on the development of social policies and services, both locally and nationally.
To achieve these aims CAB offer accurate, comprehensive and up to date information, advice and advocacy that is free, confidential and impartial.
New Plymouth CAB branch is open from 9.30am – 3.30pm Monday through Friday and is staffed by trained volunteers. There are 10 shifts per week which are from 9.30am – 12.30pm and 12.30pm – 3.30pm and two volunteers (Bureau members) are rostered on each shift. The Bureau offers a free legal service one night per week, usually a Monday and usually from 7.15 – 9pm and one Bureau member is rostered to assist the duty solicitor on this night.
To become a Bureau member it does require commitment, there is a requirement to perform a duty once a fortnight, and in general a commitment of approximately 10 – 15 hours per month is needed. This includes assisting with the day to day running of the Bureau and participating on at least one of the teams which could consist of organising information resources, maintaining the information systems and other technology, organising social gatherings, giving talks to other community groups, publicity or learning and development. Monthly learning and development sessions are held every third Wednesday 12.30pm – 2pm and a volunteer must attend 7 out of 10 per year. There is flexibility in all this, and you are able to select your own shifts to fit with your lifestyle. So, if you think, I would like to do that but I am wanting to travel for a few weeks or months and / or want to spend time with family (and don’t want to let people down or have to get someone to take my roster) this could be the perfect role for you as there is the ability to be rostered out of those times.
There is a process of Police check and signing a declaration of confidentiality to be completed and once accepted there is an induction period and the observation sessions then after successfully completing these key steps there is a probation period and finally Accreditation and Volunteer Certificate is awarded.
When asked about their experience as a volunteer some comments have been:
“it’s the fact that no two days are the same”
“it’s incredibly rewarding being a CAB volunteer”
“On any given day, we could be asked about anything under the sun - from tenancy rights, locating a support group or having documents signed by a JP”
“We work alongside our clients with the aim of empowering them.”
“We have a great team of well-trained volunteers,”
“We’ve all learned lots of skills”
“It’s also great just to be actively involved in our community, using our knowledge and experience to help people and having a bit of a laugh together sometimes as well.”
The friendly people at the Bureau are extending an invitation to prospective volunteers to go along and spend some time in the office to see how it all works, so if you would like to visit and find out more about the role CAB and the Bureau members play in our community then please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or Phone/Text 022 571 4228 so that we can arrange for your visit.
KICK START BREAKFAST CLUB IN A SCHOOL NEAR YOU
The KickStart Breakfast Programme is operated by Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (“Fonterra”) in partnership with New Zealand Health Association Limited trading as Sanitarium Health & Wellbeing Company and The Ministry of Social Development together. “The Partners“
2009 KickStart Breakfast launched in 200 decile 1-4 schools in term one.
The programme provided fresh AnchorTM Mega milk & Sanitarium Weet-BixTM
2019 Celebrated three huge milestones! •
** Welcomed our 1000th school to the programme •
** Serve our 30 millionth breakfast •
** KickStart Breakfast celebrated 10 years
2022 engagement
** Have served more than 50 million breakfasts
** More than 42,000 children / tamariki & rangatahi have breakfast every school day
** Welcomed almost 1400 schools to the programme
** Over 2,000 volunteers support these breakfast clubs
KickStart Breakfast is a community partnership initiative helping tamariki achieve their best by getting a kickstart to their day. KickStart Breakfast provides kai and guidance to help schools to run a successful, sustainable breakfast club to meet their needs.
There are several schools within the north Taranaki district that are currently involved in this programme and other that are looking to start in the next couple of terms.
We are putting out a request for people who may be interested in looking to support their local school in this programme.
Schools report a variety of benefits to children participating in KickStart Breakfast
*: Improvement in class concentration levels
* Improvement in general health and well being
* Improvement in children‘s behaviour
* Building positive relationships with peers and teacher
This programme is an awesome support to our schools to help our little people start the day with full tummies and energy to be open to learning. This is why we are looking to find more volunteers for all areas of our New Plymouth district. If you are interested in offering a few hours per school term week to support this awesome programme – we are looking to support a school near you.
We are working with the KickStart Breakfast Relationship Manager to support this – so there are more schools coming on board all the time – so if it is not right for you right now – but you could be interested in the future; think about giving us a call or sending a message to indicate your interest and we can update you as things change. If you want to know more you can also check out their website kickstartbreakfast.co.nz
If you are curious to learn more and / or interested in becoming a volunteer then please don’t hesitate - contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 7588-986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or phone or text 022 571 4228 to take the next step.
ASCOT Day Centre Volunteers
ASCOT Day Centre at Te Maru Village is a homely, friendly, fun-filled activity centre for older adults who still enjoy personal independence in their own homes but find it difficult to get out and about on their own. It is in the Hurdon area of New Plymouth and on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10.30am till 3pm you will find small groups gathered enjoying programmes that are organized by their lovely co-ordinators; with input from the attendees. Each day there can be a different group of attendees and their ages vary from the very young early sixties and range up to the late nineties. They are a great mix of older folk who enjoy being part of a very welcoming centre.
Volunteers are vital to the service and the Centre is putting out an invitation, to people who are interested in enjoying the company of some of our Communities' treasures, to come along and assist with the activities on these days. As well as being willing to be involved with the planned activities you would assist with the serving of morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea and the clean up after each activity. Volunteer hours are from 10 am to 3.30pm but can be flexible to suit the time volunteers have available.
If you have a few hours available on one or more of the days, the staff will welcome your help, it can be for a few hours one day a week or fortnight if that is what you have available or more you have more to give. Our volunteers need to be reliable and have a sense of humour that matches the day centre attendees.
If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been waiting for then call Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986; Ph/Text 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz.
Marfell Community Trust and Marfell Community School
"Rising Achievers Afterschool Programme" -
Seeking Star Volunteers
A wonderful opportunity is waiting for the right volunteers who are willing to offer a little of their heart to the young people of Marfell.
“The Rising Achievers programme is about community working together to raise achievement of the whole child in a mana enhancing environment.”
Each Marfell Community School students who is enrolled in this special afterschool programme is referred for support in academic and social areas of their wellbeing; alongside being given the opportunity to take part in fun activities and learn new skills.
Whilst in the program they become accustom to an afternoon snack, homework then out to play routine. This routine helps set a pattern to continue with once they move into their Intermediate education and are required to meet the expected national standard.
The programme runs every weekday during the school terms and the volunteers would need to be at the Marfell Community School from approximately 2.30pm until 4.40pm. As with all volunteer roles if you can help out for one day or all five it would be a great help. Every hour you put in makes a difference and rosters will be arranged to suit your availability.
For all who volunteer to help this great programme there will be training given and ongoing support to enable you to offer your time to these young people.
If you think you have the skills required and the time to share with these lovely young people or if you would just like more information contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz or Ph/Txt 022 571 4228 to have a conversation about options and perhaps arrange a chat with one of the Trust members who is involved.
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine or More–
Well in this case we are looking this time for knitters / crocheters to help save our planet.
Do you want to do something with the time you will have over the next few weeks or months –now that the cooler weather and winter is coming?
We at Volunteering New Plymouth are all about responding to needs we see in the community.
The latest need that we have learnt of are items to help with the colder weather coming up and also care support toys for children
Currently we have some wool waiting for someone to knit / crochet something with and we understand that there is a need for slippers and headbands - we have other patterns for smaller items like teddies, hearts, puppy and these are always a welcome item for a variety of organisations who are supporting children.
Are you looking for something to do during these colder nights and know how to knit / crochet the basic stitches and can follow a pattern then this is possibly something that you may like to become involved in.
We are also putting out a call for more wool too, – so before you have your next big throw out – think of recycling that wool to us. if you are unsure give us a call and check.
We are looking to supply Organisations like these with knitted items:
"People can do this as a one off or you can do it over a longer period of time,".
We are looking for people to become part of our home knitting / crochet team. "You just need time, enthusiasm and a smiling face," For those willing to help, we will hold a meeting of new Knitters / Crocheters to a “Knit or Knot” coffee meeting sometime next month to share ideas and how to hints’ also look at what you would like to make. We have some patterns available – however we are open to any others that people have ideas for and so this get together will be a great time to share ideas and from there the creativity begins.
We are looking to find people who could become part of the team as well as someone who is interested in Coordinating this so that perhaps this could include an ongoing social get together – so if you are interested in doing something from home and can use knitting needles or a crochet hook, we are keen to talk with you.
If you're interested in knitting, or donating wool, it does not matter how much you have – we can use any amount – including part skeins – it can be knitting cotton, Acrylic or pure wool, any ply and any type of wool also if you have, knitting needles or crochet hooks that are sitting in the cupboard or if you think you would like to help in some other way perhaps or just want to know more, please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, Ph/Text 022 571 4228 or Email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz
Companion Volunteers - Taranaki Base Hospital, New Plymouth
We are very excited to be sharing this new volunteer role.
As we all know Taranaki Base is our local public hospital and the medical staff are under huge pressure and are not able to give quality one to one time to our older people who are in the Acute and Older Persons wards.
This role has been on hold during the previous traffic light system – RED and now that we have moved from Red to Orange, we are hopeful that a brighter green won’t be too far into the future.
We are advertising this role now as there is a need to work through the paperwork and Police vetting and this can take some time – so we are hoping to get all that done so that when these are completed there will be time to have a group induction – So you will get to know others who will be supporting / offering their time to the older folk who are in these wards
The Companion Volunteers will provide companionship, emotional support, some distraction and assistance with entertainment for older people on the Acute and Older Persons Health and Rehabilitation Wards at Taranaki District Health Board.
You will have the opportunity to:
Ideally the volunteer will have:
The Companion Volunteers will volunteer on a roster system with two different shift times available seven days a week. The shift times are 11.00am – 3.00pm and 3.00pm – 7.00pm.
There can be some flexibility in the hours to suit the volunteer as long as it can be planned and rostered to work in with others
We are looking for people who are able to commit to one four hour shift a week for a six month period. The reason for this is there will be training given
To find out more and start the conversation then I would encourage you to contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, Ph/Text 022 571 4228 or Email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz so that she can register your interest to help
Calling Waitara Residents - Volunteers Needed!
The Waitara Project was previously known as “The Corso Shop” was set-up in response to the idea of providing a recycling venue for Waitara.
At the time of the rebuild of the Waitara dump they proposed to the NPDC - such a centre. However, the NPDC could not envisage what we meant, so they walked away and set-up the first shop at 4 West Quay (in the old garages)
They achieved two things at that time:
They set up 'Just Books and Pictures' at 8 McLean Street - Independent of the 'Main Shop' and exclusively for Books, music and pictures. They moved the Main Shop to 57 McLean Street [The old Sharrock’s Showroom].
Then in 2010 they added a new section onto the back of the 8 McLean Street Shop and combined the Books and the 'Main Shop' together.
All this time they operated as a group within Corso Incorporated.
And now with Corso Incorporated restructuring the National Organisation, all affiliated groups agreed to hold their own legal identity.
Generally they are open Wed – Fri 9am - 3pm and Saturday 9.30 am till 12.30pm. They are still at 8 McLean Street.
As I write this they are closed due to volunteer staff covid isolation. This project is totally staffed by volunteers and have been for the entire duration of this project.
In 2019 they were the recipients of Volunteering New Plymouth’s Annual Volunteer Recognition TEAM Award a well-deserved team to be recognised for their tireless effort.
The money raised through this shop goes directly back to the community in a variety of ways. If you are interested to learn how and where these funds are distributed and if you think you would like to contribute to this effort this is a special call out to you the Waitara and surrounding area residents who may have a little spare time on their hands and are wondering how to put those hours to the best possible use!! This is a great opportunity for people who could sort clothes, and other items that are donated or work on the till or help with pick up and deliveries as the driver of the truck (that you need only your car licence to drive).
If you can see yourself in one or more of these roles then I would really appreciate hearing from you so please call Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986; Ph/Txt 022 571 4228 or E: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz
Do you enjoy sewing, have your own machine and some spare time
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine or More–
Well in this case we are looking for sewers to help save our planet.
Do you want to do something with the time you will have over the next few weeks or months –now that the cooler weather and winter is coming?
Several years ago, Lauree Jones of Taranaki Enviroschools brought the concept of Boomerang Bags to Taranaki. The first of the reusable bags. This was before no plastics shopping bags.
For a couple of years, we at Volunteering New Plymouth were involved in the production and support of these.
Last year we decided to continue with the reusable bags under our own umbrella -Volunteering Bags – we have been working with our current wonderful sewers and have been developing several new templates for the variety of needs the Organisations receiving them have. The bags are in such demand as soon as the bags are delivered to our office, they are back out the door to their new temporary home.
Currently we have material waiting for new sewers. However because the bags and our current sewers are doing such a good job we are now putting out a call for material, any old quilters who have scrap that could be used to make a patchwork bag (we have an awesome sewers who are using small fabrics to make bags), pinking shears, sewing cottons, any old cushions, sheets, pillow cases, curtains – all of these can be used to make bags – so before you have you next big throw out – think of recycling that fabrics to us. Any old net curtains are also used to make produce bags – so if you are also looking at those old jeans to go to the tip – we could possibly use those too – if you are unsure give us a call and check.
We currently supply bags to:
"People can do it as a one off or you can do it over a long period of time,".
We are also looking for people to become part of our home sewer team. "You just need a sewing machine or an overlocker, and time, enthusiasm and a smiling face," For those willing to help, we will hold a session to demonstrate how they are made from the pattern and from there the creativity begins.
We currently have material ready to be cut and no time to get to that task, so we are also looking to find people who could become part of the team as cutters too – so if you are interested in doing something from home and can use scissors or sewing machine, we are keen to talk with you.
If you're interested in sewing, or donating materials such as sewing cotton, machine needles or if you think you would like to help in some other way perhaps or just want to know more, please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986, phone or text 022 571 4228 or email: admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz
North Taranaki SPCA Op Shop:
SPCA (The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Incorporated) is New Zealand’s oldest and largest animal welfare charity with 33 animal centres across the country.
New Plymouth SPCA Op Shop helps support the great work of the New Plymouth Colson Road SPCA centre. At both the centre and the shop simply could not function without the help of the fantastic volunteers who donate their time.
The Shop has a new Manager – Carol McCartain and she is very excited to be the new person leading the team of volunteer helpers. The opening hours are currently Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 5pm.
The shop is looking for people to join their great team of volunteers to help out at their Devon Street West (Near the Morley Street lights). They are looking to expand the shop hours and therefore will need extra hands to accommodate this.
The shop is stocked with quality goods that generous members of the public donate. The goods are sorted by some wonderful volunteers and sold through the shop. The tasks that are involved are receiving goods, sorting of clothes, shoes, art & craft, material and curtains and other items as received.
The skills that would be helpful are:
a) Decision making b) Customer service c) Literacy & numeracy
d) Good sense of humour e) Team player
Other qualities that would also be helpful are:
1) Flexibility 3) Able to stand for reasonable periods of time
2) Hands on skills 4) Able to learn on the job
Are you interested in supporting the work that SPCA do locally ? Are you interested in volunteering for a short time or becoming part of the weekly team ?
Currently the key times that people are needed are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday any time during opening hours – so if you have a couple of hours to spare you could become part of the morning team between 9 – 1pm or the afternoon team between 1 – 3 or if you wished till 5pm. Carol is interested in working around the availability that you have and wants to support you to have a great experience and join the current volunteers who are a great and happy group. Carol is happy to have people she can train to take on some responsible roles within the shop, so there are opportunities to gain great skills.
If you are ready to put your hand up to help, we have got the volunteer option to suit you. If you are available on one or more of those days, could you give a helping hand for a shift a week or a fortnight? Do you have a day or part day with nothing to do?
Would you be happy to be called upon when they need extra hands - If the answer is 'yes' to any of the above questions then please contact Wendy at the Volunteering New Plymouth on (06) 758 8986 or text / phone her cell 022 571 4228 or email admin@volunteeringnewplymouth.nz to learn more and/or add your name to the list to help.
Volunteer Visitors
Age Concern is a charitable organisation dedicated solely to people over 65. Their mission is to promote the dignity, wellbeing, equity and respect of our elderly community, and provide expert information and support services in response to older people's needs.
Thankfully, the majority of older people are not severely lonely, but findings from The Social Report 2016 showed that 10% of New Zealanders aged 65-74, and 13% of those aged over 75, feel lonely all, most, or some of the time. We know social connection is so important though; research has found that having inadequate social relationships can be as bad for health as smoking, and that loneliness is linked to an increased likelihood of entering rest home care. This is why Volunteer Accredited Visitors and the time they dedicate to older people is so valuable.
Age Concern Taranaki are looking for caring volunteers who can commit to visiting an older person regularly, usually requiring 1-2 hours per week.
The Accredited Visiting Service coordinator will match a volunteer with an older person who shares similar interests, who they can share stories or do activities with, while enjoying each other’s company. Current volunteers have said that they enjoy the opportunity to get to know their older