Building Inclusion Through Connection

Voices of Volunteer Leadership

For Clare Nash, National Manager of Volunteering and Community Development at IHC New Zealand, leadership is about people — connecting, supporting, and empowering others to build stronger, more inclusive communities. Every day, she works alongside volunteer leaders across the motu, helping them feel confident in their roles and ensuring that volunteering within IHC continues to grow in both purpose and impact.

“My role is all about supporting people and building strong connections,” Clare explains. “I look at how we can strengthen volunteering, making sure opportunities are meaningful for both the volunteers and the people we support.”

Clare’s path to volunteering leadership has been anything but linear. After more than 20 years in the fitness industry, she felt called to do something that created deeper impact. “I loved my work but was ready for a change — something that made a real difference in people’s lives,” she says. “I moved into community events for a while, then found my way to IHC about three years ago as a Volunteer Coordinator. I haven’t looked back.”

Her passion for the role was confirmed early on. “There’s nothing like seeing a volunteer and their new friend instantly connect,” she recalls.

“One friendship I matched, the person we support was nervous because he’d never had a real friend before. A year later, they’re still close — seeing his confidence and happiness grow has been incredibly special. Moments like that remind me why I do this work.”

At IHC, volunteers are matched with people with intellectual disabilities to form genuine friendships — going out for coffee, catching a movie, or simply spending time together. These relationships help break down social barriers and build confidence and belonging. “Volunteers bring heart to our communities,” Clare says. “They give their time so freely, creating spaces of joy, support, and inclusion.”

For Clare, what inspires her most is the mutual transformation that takes place. “It’s deeply moving to see when a volunteer realises their friend is teaching them something too,” she reflects. “These friendships are two-way — they challenge perceptions, open hearts, and change lives on both sides.”

Clare’s work is grounded in the IHC mission — advocating for and supporting people with intellectual disabilities to live their best lives. “That’s what drew me to IHC in the first place,” she says. “It aligns with my own values around dignity, inclusion, and equity. Seeing individuals thrive and communities become more inclusive — that’s what keeps me motivated.”

The role isn’t without its challenges. “The hardest part is when a volunteer suddenly stops showing up for their friend,” Clare admits. “It can be heartbreaking, especially when a strong bond has formed. It’s a reminder of how important trust, consistency, and communication are in these relationships.”

Through these moments, Clare has grown as a leader. “I’ve learned how to have difficult conversations with empathy and clarity. These experiences have made me more resilient and confident — and more aware of the human side of leadership.”

She’s also passionate about recognising the complexity of leading volunteers. “It’s more than just coordination,” she explains. “You’re advertising, recruiting, onboarding, training, mentoring, reviewing, planning events, recognising contributions, and reporting. It takes empathy, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to people.” Clare advocates for joining the local volunteer centre – take every opportunity they offer for training – and pace yourself.

Looking ahead, Clare sees volunteering as a powerful connector for future communities. “I think we’ll continue to see more people wanting to make real, local impact — to build connection in a time when people crave belonging,” she says. “Volunteering does that beautifully.”

Her advice to those starting out in volunteer management? “Be prepared to wear many hats, get to know your community, and build strong relationships. Join your local volunteer centre — attend all their workshops — and pace yourself. It’s meaningful work, but it’s also a journey.”

For Clare, that journey is guided by one simple but powerful belief:

“I do what I do because I’m inspired to see people with intellectual disabilities engage more in their community, grow in confidence, form true connections — and teach their volunteer something new along the way.”

Find out more about volunteering for IHC