Office of Hon Winnie Laban
Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector
MP for Mana
5 December 2005 Media Statement
Minister acknowledges true impact of volunteering
Imagine life without ambulance drivers, surf lifesavers, or sports coaches. New Zealand would be a very different place
without these volunteers. Community and Voluntary Sector Minister, Hon Winnie Laban pays tribute today to the thousands
of kiwi's who give their time to help others, without pay and often without recognition.
"This labour–led government acknowledges the vital contribution volunteers make to social development, the economy, and
the environment. The government adopted a policy on volunteering that envisages a society with a high level of
volunteering, where the many contributions people make to the common good through volunteering are actively supported
and valued." said Winnie Laban.
The United Nations designated 5 December as International Volunteer Day and invited governments around the world to
celebrate volunteers and raise awareness of the part they play in society.
"Over 9,000 volunteer firefighters and 2,400 volunteer ambulance personnel provide emergency services to communities.
The work that volunteers do has enormous value. Nearly 7,000 refugees and migrants received English language support
from volunteer teachers. These exemplify a huge and humbling effort!" says Winnie Laban.
More than one million New Zealanders are involved in some form of voluntary work in their communities: from sports,
recreation, arts, culture and heritage to emergency and social services, health, education, conservation and the
environment.
Winnie Laban extends her heartfelt thanks to all volunteers. “I want to say a very big thank you to the many volunteers
for their work and to the thousands of organisations, individuals and families who support them. This work provides
great opportunities to build strong, mutually enriching, sustainable relationships for all New Zealanders.”
International Volunteers Day is an opportunity for us all to recognise the work of the thousands of volunteers who
contribute to making the kiwi way of life safer, healthier, and happier.
ENDS