From: The Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind
Wanted - one army for the Foundation's October appeal
The Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind is already on the look out for an 'army' of well-organised, energetic
volunteers to help them raise $1 million during their annual Appeal in late October.
"Our aim is to get over 15,000 volunteers knocking on doors of households throughout New Zealand," says Carol White,
Marketing Operations Manager for the Foundation's national appeals.
"We have already recruited our volunteer managers and some of our area co-ordinators. What we need now are people who
are willing to contribute 2-3 hours of their time - to collecting donations and helping with office and administration
work - essential tasks in every Blind Week appeal."
Ms White says that a successful appeal depends on the goodwill and support of volunteers, "These dedicated, unpaid
workers are the key people in a huge operation like a national appeal.
"If we can raise enough volunteer support we can meet our million dollar target and that means we can continue to
provide essential services to blind and sight-impaired New Zealanders.
"We are fortunate that some of our volunteers help year after year, which is a big advantage as they get to know the
organisation and the ins and outs of how the appeals work".
The Foundation appreciates the large role that service clubs play in helping to raise awareness and donations for blind
and sight-impaired New Zealanders. Carol White says that Lions, Rotary, schools, as well as church groups, business
groups and other community organisations give the Foundation fantastic volunteer support during the annual appeals.
This year the Blind Week appeal runs from Tuesday 24 October through to Monday 30 October.
The Foundation would like to build its volunteer teams up well in advance of the appeal date. If anyone is interested in
helping the Foundation by volunteering 2-3 hours (or more) of their time they can phone 0800 272 4553 and ask to speak
to their nearest regional event manager.
-ends-
For further information, please contact Catherine Hennessy, Communications Co-ordinator, RNZFB, Ph: (09) 355-6884,
021-687-426.