Lending a helping hand
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Volunteers are essential to the RNZFB’s work and that of many other not-for-profit organisations. Although they give their time freely to help others, many volunteers also feel they receive much in return. Here, four of our members share their experience as volunteers.
Lauryl Crump
As a volunteer in the RNZFB’s Hamilton office, Lauryl is responsible for making sure the Talking Book Machines get processed in a timely manner.
Lauryl says that before she started volunteering, she had been feeling a bit isolated and missed working.
“It has been a great experience for me. I enjoy coming in and being part of the work force again and my confidence has increased."
RNZFB Regional Coordinator, Trish Murray, is delighted to have Lauryl on board.
“She has picked up the system quickly. We have reduced our waiting list down to nil, which is great for members in our region.”
Graham Patterson
Graham first started volunteering after he was made redundant, and now works as a volunteer on the reception desk at Volunteering Otago. In August Graham was awarded their ‘Volunteer of the Month’.
“Volunteering is a two-way street,” Graham says. “You can expect to benefit as much as the group you are helping.”
In his role Graham likes meeting people and interviewing potential volunteers. He has good central vision but no peripheral vision, so he takes care to orient himself with his surroundings.
“I am lucky to have colleagues who are understanding and supportive.”
Renee Junger
Twenty two year old Renee has a passion for volunteering particularly
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in activities involving children and youth.
Renee says that she finds volunteering “opens the door to new opportunities and experiences”.
She is currently a leader and the training coordinator for Girls’ Brigade, and vice chairperson of the Hamilton City Youth Council. Renee also volunteers as an assistant leader at the RNZFB’s annual Summer Residential Children’s Programme.
A trained teacher, Renee recently volunteered for a reading programme at a local school. This has led to the school now employing her as a regular relief teacher!
Titahi Bay Ladies’ Group
These dedicated members meet weekly to make soft toys, and in September they donated a selection of the toys to blind children in Christchurch.
Coordinator Hazel Dryburgh says new members often think they can't sew because they can't see. “But they can feel their way,” she says.
Photograph: Titahi Bay Ladies' Group members Natalie Clarke and Heather Tofts with some of their toys. Photo from Kapi-Mana News.
About 90 minutes’ work goes into each toy before it is given to a member to sew.
But Hazel doesn’t mind. “I enjoy helping people achieve something they wouldn't ordinarily achieve."
To volunteer for the RNZFB, check our vacancies at www.rnzfb.org.nz/volunteer