Organisation Spotlight: Age Concern South Canterbury

At Volunteering Mid & South Canterbury (VMSC), we love showcasing the incredible organisations in our region and the difference they make in people’s lives. This month, we are proud to feature Age Concern South Canterbury, an organisation dedicated to promoting the rights, wellbeing, and quality of life of older people across the region.

With a small team of four staff supported by a network of dedicated volunteers, Age Concern delivers a wide range of services, including social events, wellbeing checks, SilverTech and refresher courses, expos, their Visiting Service, and assistance with Total
Mobility Cards, plus much more.

Volunteers Are at the Heart of Their Work
Volunteers make it possible for Age Concern to offer these vital services. From cooking for 80–100 people at the weekly Friday Club to assisting at events, supporting visiting services, and helping with programmes, volunteers’ generosity and commitment make a real difference.

Currently, Age Concern is looking for volunteers to support their Visiting Service, offering friendship to a client for just one hour per week. Other volunteer opportunities include:
• Driving for monthly van outings
• Supporting the Steady As You Go exercise programme
• Providing general assistance to staff and activities

Volunteers report that being part of Age Concern is rewarding, offering connection, purpose, and the joy of knowing they are positively impacting someone’s life.

Real Impact
One client, who initially knew no one locally, has been matched with a volunteer visitor for over a year. Their weekly conversations have grown into a trusting friendship that has significantly improved the client’s emotional and social wellbeing. Stories like this highlight the profound effect a small amount of time and care can have.

Get Involved
Volunteering at Age Concern South Canterbury is open to anyone aged 18 or over. Kindness, empathy, and a willingness to listen and help are the qualities that make the biggest difference. VMSC is here to support all volunteers across Age Concern’s programmes.
• Explore volunteer opportunities: VMSC Volunteer Listing
• Phone: 03 987 7364
• Learn more about Age Concern South Canterbury: www.ageconcernsc.org.nz

At VMSC, we believe volunteering changes lives — both for those who receive support and those who give it. Help us support Age Concern South Canterbury and make a real difference in your community today.