Give Volunteers a Big Shout-Out This June

Give a Big Shout-out to the volunteers in your community this June, says Haidee Woods from Volunteering Mid & South Canterbury.

“Volunteers are vital to our communities, and everyone who gives their time to help their neighbour, school, marae or community organisation deserves a big shout-out,” says Haidee.

The Big Shout-out campaign runs for the month of June, including National Volunteer Week (16-22 June), as a way to recognise and thank volunteers.
Volunteering Mid & South Canterbury will be holding a Volunteers Morning Tea with live entertainment and volunteer storytelling to thank volunteers.

When: Thursday, 20th June (10:00 am – 11:30 am)
Where: Baptist Church Hall, 17 Wilson Street, Timaru
Guest Speaker: Mayor Nigel Bowen
For more information, go to https://vmsc.org.nz/organisations/events/VolunteersMorningTeaNVW2024

Volunteers play a vital role in our communities. They serve as first responders in emergencies, clean up our beaches, care for our animals, and restore wild places. They also provide meals for those in need and offer support to people going through tough times.

In South Canterbury, many volunteers have had a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people by working with non-profit organizations. In return, these volunteers have reported positive outcomes such as improved mental health, reduced loneliness and isolation, a renewed sense of purpose, opportunities to make new friends, increased physical activity, gaining valuable experience, reconnecting with their community, and acquiring new skills. Quote from Michelle Kitney, Chief Executive Volunteering New Zealand, “New Zealand thrives on the dedication of volunteers. With over half of all Kiwis involved in volunteering, they are the heart and soul of our communities.

“Volunteers are the glue that holds a community together. Volunteers connect to their community and make it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people. It’s time to recognise, thank and celebrate volunteers. They are our unsung heroes who often don’t ask for recognition but deserve our thanks,” says Haidee.

The Big Shout-out encourages everyone to thank a volunteer they know – to give them a shout-out on social media (#thebigshoutout) or shout them morning tea.

Find out more: www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/the-big-shout-out/

Call to action – shout-out to volunteers
Volunteering New Zealand’s suggestions for The Big Shout-out:
• Show your thanks for volunteers in your life. Share a photo or message of thanks on social media #thebigshoutout
• Find easy-to-use templates and graphics: www.volunteeringnz.org.nz/the-big-shout-out/the-big-shout-out-resources/
• Shout volunteers a morning/afternoon tea or other celebration. They deserve it!