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Take a bow, Ian

Ian Standeven at his desk in Wellington

When you think Wellington, you probably think of the Beehive and the trolley buses. For ex-RNZFB staff member Ian Standeven, Wellington stretches as far north as Gisborne and as far west as New Plymouth.

Ian was Wellington's Volunteer Co-ordinator and Locality Co-ordinator from January 2000 until he retired on 25 January this year. Looking back on his initial job interview, he laughs when he remembers finding out the Foundation's definition of Wellington. The huge area he was responsible for meant travelling up to an estimated 20,000 kilometres every year.

Ian has loved working with volunteers over the years and seeing the difference they make. "One of the wonderful things is how many of our members are independent, and part of the role of volunteers is to ensure that independence," says Ian.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Foundation, helping members be as independent as they wish to be. Volunteer Co-ordinators like Ian are central to organising volunteer activity.

His favourite part of the job was seeing the impact of his work on the day-to-day lives of members. "For me it's really positive to see that change in people from when they first become members – seeing how they move forward and gain confidence. It's nice to be a small part of that change," says Ian.

In the Wellington region alone, there are around 600 registered volunteers in over 1200 different roles: drivers, talking book distributers, trainers and repairers, Telephone Information Service volunteers and Telefriend volunteers. On top of this are the Foundation's 43 Community Committees, 18 of which are in the Wellington region.

Alison Marshall, National Manager Volunteer Services, says Ian made a huge difference in his time at the RNZFB.

"Ian's got a real interest in people and made a huge commitment to the Foundation. His innovative solutions to problems are a lasting contribution, and we'll really miss his eye for detail and humanitarian approach," says Alison.

From everyone at the Foundation, Ian, all the best for your retirement!