Tairāwhiti volunteers ' the engine in a fancy car'

Gisborne Volunteer Centre (GVC) carefully matches volunteers with the organisation's where they will have the greatest impact, enjoyment, and sense of contribution.

Jenny Greaves, GVC manager, says, “It’s such a misconception that only retired people volunteer. We have all sorts of people offering a huge range of skills and a big part of our role is facilitating people going into a place that’s the right fit for them.” 

Having a fund with Sunrise and receiving a grant every year forever is what appeals to Amber Aitkenhead, GVC board member, as she believes it helps secure their long-term security. That and the fact that all donations through Sunrise stay local. 

Amber says, “Volunteers in Tairāwhiti are like the engine in a fancy car, you see the car but not what’s under the hood.”  

Ros Faulkner, volunteer service advisor says, “Volunteering is all about community. Whether you’re delivering kai to people in need or are a person offering governance skills, each voluntary role is as important as the next and gives just as much self-worth and satisfaction.” 

Over 20 new organisations joined GVC last year, so there is always a need for new people within the community to help. Volunteering may be a small one-off role or a regular position within an organisation where help is needed. 

With national volunteer week happening from 19-25 June, there’s no better time to visit the GVC team in Treble Court to find out how you can help somewhere in our community.  

Read more about the GVC endowment fund here.