Volunteers are the heart of Plunket

Volunteer Awareness Week (17-23 June) is a chance to acknowledge and thank more than one million New Zealanders who give their time and skills to make a difference in their communities every year.

For the past 104 years the passion and dedication of volunteers has enabled Plunket to give New Zealand parents the knowledge and support they need to nurture healthy, happy kiwi babies.

Plunket New Zealand President Tristine Clark says volunteers are what makes Plunket different from other Well Child providers.

“Plunket is in the enviable position of having thousands of hard working, selfless people who give of their time, knowledge, skills and energy.

“Many of the services Plunket offers - such as parenting education, car seat rental schemes, toy libraries, parent support groups, playgroups, child safety programmes and helping raise funds to assist with the running of the family centres – simply wouldn’t be possible without the time, talent, and effort of our volunteers.

“With our volunteers working together with staff we can help to give every child in New Zealand the best start in life.

Mrs Clark says there are many opportunities for volunteers to develop existing or new skills.

“Here at Plunket we run a volunteer education programme which recognises the contribution of our volunteers. It covers areas such as leadership, communication, presentation skills, health and safety, and educating the community.  All great skills which transfer well into paid employment.”

If you are interested in getting involved in your local community, gaining new skills and helping Plunket get the best start for every child, contact your local Plunket office or visit www.plunket.org.nz