Every Contribution Matters: Celebrating Inclusive Volunteering in Aotearoa
International Volunteer Day 2025: Every Contribution Matters
Celebrating Inclusive Volunteering and the Launch of Mahi Tahi, Mahi Wātea
Each year on 5 December, Aotearoa joins the world in marking UN International Volunteer Day — a moment to recognise the countless individuals whose time, passion, and generosity strengthen our communities. The 2025 theme, Every Contribution Matters, invites us to honour the idea that every person has something valuable to offer, and that our communities flourish when all people are welcomed to participate.
This year’s celebration carries added significance as it aligns closely with International Day of Disabled Persons on 3 December and the launch of Mahi Tahi, Mahi Wātea, a new support guide designed to foster more inclusive and accessible volunteering spaces across Tāmaki Makaurau and Aotearoa.
A whakataukī shared at the launch beautifully captures the collective spirit of this moment:
“Mā mua ka kite a muri, mā muri ka ora a mua.”
Those who lead give sight to those who follow; those who follow give life to those who lead.
Leadership and learning, it reminds us, are shared journeys. Mahi Tahi, Mahi Wātea embodies this principle — created through genuine partnership among leaders of volunteers, disabled people, and those committed to building communities where everyone can contribute.
The guide is the culmination of two years of collaboration, kōrero, and co-design. It provides practical tools and insights for organisations wanting to confidently engage disabled volunteers — recognising not only the importance of accessibility but the transformative value of diverse skills, perspectives, and lived experiences.
As was emphasised at the launch, inclusive volunteering is not simply an act of accommodation — it enriches organisations. Welcoming disabled people as volunteers brings fresh ideas, strengthens community connections, and expands the ways we serve one another. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, shapes the wellbeing and resilience of our communities.
Mahi Tahi, Mahi Wātea offers guidance on creating inclusive cultures, safe and equitable recruitment practices, supportive volunteer environments, and understanding the legislation that protects and empowers disabled volunteers. It is a supportive, practical resource — not a rulebook — designed to help organisations take the next step in building volunteering programmes where everyone can thrive.
This work is also a reminder that inclusion is an ongoing journey. As needs arise, community organisations are encouraged to seek further advice, build confidence, and ensure their approaches remain fair, safe, and empowering for all.
Another whakataukī shared at the launch captures the heart of this kaupapa:
“Me he aka rātā ka tipu tahi, ka puāwai tahi kia tū kaha i ngā hihi ō Tamanuiterā.”
Like the rātā vines growing together and flourishing to stand strong in the sun.
When we remove barriers and make space for every person’s contribution, we build communities that are stronger, more connected, and more compassionate.
On International Volunteer Day 2025, we celebrate not only volunteers but the vision of a future where every contribution truly matters — and where inclusive, safe, and welcoming volunteer spaces allow all of us to flourish together.
