11 March 2002 Media Statement
Maharey calls on MPs to support Volunteer Awareness Week
Minister responsible for Community and Voluntary Sector, Steve Maharey, is encouraging MPs from all over the country to
take on volunteer duties, or spend time talking to voluntary groups, as part of Volunteer Awareness Week.
Steve Maharey said that more than 50 MPs took part in Volunteer Awareness Week last year in recognition of International
Year of Volunteers.
“I am keen to see the momentum from the International Year of Volunteers continue.
"The idea is for MPs to either spend time helping out in their community, or recognise the contribution of volunteers
within their community in some other way. I will be hosting a meeting with a number of volunteers in my community to
discuss issues affecting them.
“The goal is to raise awareness of the enormous contribution volunteers make to our society and to encourage more people
to take up volunteering.
"Not only will this give MPs a greater appreciation of the wonderful work carried out by volunteers, but it is also
hoped we will encourage more New Zealanders to become involved in volunteering."
Steve Maharey said the Government is also funding a national volunteering conference to be held in Christchurch on 21-23
March (details at www.volunteeringnz.org.nz) and is putting money into growing the national network of volunteer
centres.
Volunteer Awareness week runs from March 11 to 17.
ENDS