International Volunteer Day: Every Contribution Matters

1 minute read
Posted 2 December, 2025
WHS students at Whakatipu Senior Citizens

International Volunteer Day (5th of December) is an opportunity to consider the huge global impact of volunteering and thank our amazing volunteers! This year’s theme ‘Every Contribution Matters’, reminds us that volunteering takes many forms, and that no time is too little to make a difference.

The dedication of volunteers carries our communities - whether it’s a one-off event, a seasonal stint, or a long-term commitment. They’re our sports coaches, our predator trappers, our ‘big buddies’, our marathon marshals, our rest home visitors, our op shop assistants, and so much more. Their passion and skills culminate in 231 million hours of labour annually in New Zealand - the equivalent of $6.4 billion!

Volunteer South helps people find their ideal volunteer roles through initiatives like ‘Find Your Perfect Match’ events, utilising speed-dating to connect potential volunteers to organisations who need them. They also facilitate group volunteering for corporate groups and high local high students, allowing participants to experience community impact firsthand.

Volunteer South thanks volunteers across the Otago-Southland region for their time, their skills, and their passion. They encourage everyone to get involved! You can find volunteer opportunities across the region on their website: www.volunteersouth.org.nz - filter by area, and discover roles that spark your interest. Whether you have a little time or a lot, there’s something for everyone.

If your community group needs support recruiting volunteers or managing your volunteer programme, contact their Community Connector for Central Lakes - Paula Denton - on 027 506 5703 or paula@volunteersouth.org.nz


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