International Volunteer Manager's Day - 5th November 2010

<strong>Message from Hon. Tariana Turia, Minister for the Community Voluntary Sector</strong>

"Volunteer managers do an important job motivating and supporting volunteers and it is wonderful that we can show our appreciation on the 5 November International Volunteer Managers Day.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of most Kiwi communities. The managers of volunteers who make the extra effort to plan, make decisions and organise where volunteer activity is best used, contribute hugely to the many sporting, health-related and community activities that take place every week and weekend. I know that I am always amazed by the skills shown by those on the marae who, at the drop of a hat, take the lead in guiding all the hands needed to organise a tangi or wananga.

Highly effective managers in any profession, paid or otherwise, provide leadership and this is not always easy. Let’s take the opportunity to thank our volunteer managers and coordinators for putting themselves forward to take on this important responsibility.

One of these responsibilities is the recruitment and retention of volunteers, which is a significant issue facing many voluntary organisations. I know that in New Zealand we are all constantly looking at training, sharing ideas, resources and local solutions to maintain our volunteer base so we can build stronger, more resilient communities.

I am pleased that in New Zealand we have committed people doing wonderful work to support our volunteers. So I say thank you for the continuing roles you play in keeping New Zealand vibrant."

-ENDS-