National Volunteer Week kicks off with a round of applause

An event hosted by Volunteering Canterbury, held on Monday 19 June, awarded recognition to outstanding volunteer contribution.

Volunteering Canterbury Outreach Manager Glenda Martin says awards were presented to 27 individuals and 11 groups. “Nominations for awards were received across Ōtautahi Christchurch and reflected the diversity of volunteering which happens within our community

“From preparation for regalia at graduation ceremonies and assisting with ESOL classes, to delivering meals on wheels and supporting community sports teams - the individuals and groups selected work in a range of areas.”

One of the 27 individual recipients was Pauline Collett from Blind Low Vision. Blind Low Vision is one of the oldest organisations that received an award, celebrating their 130^th anniversary in 2020. 

Ms Collett receiving her Volunteering Canterbury award

Ms Collett has supported the monthly socials offered to members of Blind Low Vision for the last 16 years – telephoning around members to see if they are coming and providing a warm welcome on their arrival.

Ms Collett goes the extra mile in her role, whether assisting at donor functions or the weekly counting of collection box monies. Ms Collett continues to support both Blind Low Vision staff and the organisation’s members, always with a smile.

“Whether newly established or having been involved in the community for many years, each organisation provides an invaluable service to the community and volunteers play an important part in enabling that to happen,” says Ms Martin.

Volunteers contribute some 598,000 hours and impact the lives of 303,000 individuals in the Ōtautahi Christchurch community.