Volunteering
By Bryan Wilshire |
|
Lifeline Auckland was founded on a strong belief of the strength and community value of volunteerism. This belief remains just as valid and true today. Sure we have changed over the last almost 43 years and we will change in the future. However, the basic premise of being able to offer an expression of humanity to others through volunteering is as true today as it has ever has been.
|
 |
I believe that the event in history some 7 years ago, that we now simply call 9/11, was a tipping point for people. We came to realise that life is but a short time on earth and the desire, the strong desire, to reach out and offer help to others is now stronger than ever. In the United States, and I understand Canada, there has been a marked resurgence in numbers of people offering themselves for volunteer service, working within their own communities and neighbourhoods to bring about change. May that same resurgence come here – but without the need for a 9/11.
At this time of the year we have the opportunity to reflect upon the spirit of voluntary service. This is the opposite of the spirit of self-interest and individualism that are characteristics of our society, because the volunteer works to assist others and to enhance the common good.
Statistics New Zealand tell us that more than one million people do some form of voluntary work in New Zealand. More than one third of all New Zealanders over 12 years of age volunteer their time and energy for the benefit of their communities. In countless ways (too numerous to itemise) the women, men and young people of our country involve themselves in serving the community in every activity one can think of.
We at Lifeline survive on the voluntary gifts of time, energy and other resources to assist others. Lifeline volunteers are people whose work is often less public, more out of sight, not always recognised and appreciated but nevertheless vital to our society.
So to all the volunteers working with Kidsline, the 24/7 line, Face to Face, Chineseline, Mensline, Refugee Lifeline, the Board of Lifeline, the Board of the Foundation, those that help with administration and with the maintenance of our premises, with the design of brochures and photography for promotional materials, those that help with the Kidsline poster competition or who help at events and gatherings, the teaching team working with Rita and Joan, the supervisory group guiding and supporting the 24/7 line, the KRT team and the reference group members assisting the face to face department…to you all…I express on behalf of the countless people you assist, the indebtedness and gratitude of our society and the wish that your gifts are never taken for granted.
Thank you and warm wishes for a safe and happy festive season
|
|
|