Join the shout-out to our Volunteers

By Angela Brown

Think for a moment about how important volunteers are in the community. 

So many people freely giving their time, energy, and resources to help positively shape where we live. June is National Volunteers Month and the theme of Volunteering New Zealand this year is Whiria te tangata – weaving the people together.

I had a catch-up with local legend Charlotte Harding to discuss an exciting community festival in the planning stages. And where did I find her on a Monday morning? Washing cars to raise money for the Martinborough Pump Track.

Since becoming a member of the community board, I have come across so many people selflessly volunteering in our community. 

They include: Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade and First Responders, members of Lions Club, the many foodbanks in the South Wairarapa district, Rotary Oceania, Community Patrols, the many community gardens, all of the South Wairarapa Men’s Sheds, senior coffee groups, toy libraries, community markets, Martinborough Museum and the South Wairarapa Biodiversity Group. 

Then there are sports groups, churches and school volunteers. The list is endless.

Volunteer Month in June sees an opportunity to acknowledge the amazing volunteers who we all know and the unsung heroes who often go unnoticed.

South Wairarapa District Council website and Facebook pages have more information. And, get involved by nominating a volunteer you admire. Why not seize the opportunity to become a volunteer yourself? 

It’s a great way to contribute and connect. It’s also rewarding.