Our Week to Recognise our Workforce of 1.2 Million Volunteers
National Volunteer Week is here! It’s a week to recognise and celebrate the efforts of 1.2 million kiwis who volunteer
their time for the good of our communities and nation.
Volunteers make a vital contribution to social development, the economy and the environment by donating approximately
157 million hours to non-profits annually. Given people are becoming increasingly busy, working longer hours and
choosing to spend their discretionary time watching Netflix etc., it is pleasing to recognise the additional 200,000
people who choose to volunteer between 2004 and 2013.
This year’s theme; “Live, Laugh, Share – Volunteer” acknowledges and celebrates the community-building elements of
volunteering: the care that is shown, the friendships that are forged, the memories that are formed and the laughter
than ensues.
Around New Zealand, community groups, corporates, volunteer centres, mayors and politicians and the media will be
organising or supporting events recognising the incredible value-add that volunteers bring to services, sports and
society.
Dave Adams, NVW campaign manager, affirmed this by saying “Volunteers are the backbone of a nation that cares for its
own; we’re pleased to see so many organisations taking part in this year’s National Volunteer Week to celebrate the 1.2
million Kiwis who volunteer their time for good. “
National Volunteer Week 2017 runs from 18-24 June and this year VNZ is encouraging New Zealanders to get involved by
sharing their experiences of volunteering using the #NVW2017 hashtag and/or attending local events throughout the week.
For more information on National Volunteer Week and ways to get involved visit www.nationalvolunteerweek.nz
Volunteering New Zealand (VNZ) is an association of national volunteer-involving organisations that have a commitment to
volunteering. Their mission is to maximise the impact of volunteering in our communities. www.volunteeringnz.org.nz