Parkinson’s NZ says a huge thank you to volunteers

22 June 2016

Parkinson’s New Zealand says a huge thank you to all volunteers across New Zealand.

“Many people living with Parkinson’s would have a very difference experience of our service if it was not for strong volunteer support,” says Deirdre O’Sullivan, Parkinson’s New Zealand Chief Executive.

The contribution of volunteers in non- profit institutions in New Zealand is significant. A 2013 Statistics New Zealand report on Non- profit Satellite Accounts showed the number of volunteers had increased 21% from 2004 to 2013. The reported also highlighted the impact of around 157 million volunteer hours donated in the not for profit sector in 2013.

“We have a wide range of volunteer skills donated to our organisation each year and we try really hard to match those skills with projects, roles and events that keep our volunteers motivated,” says Deirdre.

“This provides Parkinson’s New Zealand with access to some fantastic opportunities and relationships that build up over many years. Currently we have a volunteer project building a new website and another project helping to design our volunteer programme.”

One of our long time volunteers is Margaret Griffith from Auckland. Margaret started volunteering when her late husband Bill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 12 years ago. She has organised gala nights, bridge fundraisers and is part of a small team that sells over 1,400 tulip bulbs for Parkinson’s Auckland each year.

“Being part of Parkinson’s Auckland has been a fellowship for me and so many of us who either have Parkinson’s or care for people with Parkinson’s. I continue to try to think of ways to help with funding,” says Margaret.

If you are looking to volunteer we would love to hear from you call Freephone: 0800 473 4636 (0800 4 PD INFO) or visit our website www.parkinsons.org.nz to find out your nearest branch/division details.

ENDS

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