Supporting Volunteers, Strengthening Community
Voices of Volunteer Leadership
For Helen Harrison, Volunteer Relationship Manager at Hospice West Auckland, every day is about people. From welcoming new volunteers and checking in with existing ones, to supporting managers with placements and training, Helen ensures volunteers feel valued, supported, and connected to a meaningful purpose. “No two days are the same,” she says, “but every day involves making sure volunteers have a positive experience while helping the organisation achieve its goals.”
A Volunteering Journey
Helen’s journey in volunteering leadership began when she herself volunteered with Hospice West Auckland. Unsure of her next steps at the time, she joined to give back and stay engaged. “Not long after, I was encouraged to apply for a role supporting a small group of volunteers,” she recalls. “What began as helping with everyday tasks soon grew into something much more meaningful. A real passion for supporting people, helping them find their place, and seeing them thrive.”
A defining moment came when Helen watched a shy, uncertain volunteer grow in confidence, find their voice, and shine in their role. “Seeing them build connections and make a meaningful contribution was so rewarding,” she says. “It made me realise that with the right support, people can flourish, and being part of that journey showed me I was exactly where I was meant to be.”
What drew Helen to Hospice West Auckland, and continues to inspire her, is the organisation’s heart. “It’s about supporting people with compassion and dignity, and valuing every contribution, big or small,” she explains. “Seeing that spirit in action every day, the kindness of volunteers, the dedication of staff, and the difference we make together, is something I never take for granted.”
Helen loves working with volunteers because of the people themselves. “Every volunteer brings their own story, talents, and heart to the role,” she says. “I love watching connections form, seeing people grow in confidence, and witnessing the pride they feel in making a difference.” Volunteers’ generosity of spirit motivates her to continue in the role, knowing that she plays a part in creating a space where their contribution is meaningful.
Impact of Volunteers
The impact of volunteers at Hospice West Auckland is profound. Helen shares the story of one volunteer who started sorting donations and later took on customer service, becoming the “go-to” person in the shop. Their enthusiasm lifted the team, increased sales that directly supported services, and eventually led to a paid role where they now manage other volunteers. “Being a volunteer gives insight into how people like to be treated and appreciated,” Helen explains.
Volunteers have also been her teachers. “They’ve shown me the importance of patience, empathy, and listening,” she says. “Every individual has something unique to offer, and sometimes what they need most isn’t direction, but to be heard, encouraged, and supported.” Leading volunteers has made Helen a better communicator, more adaptable, and more empathetic, personally and professionally.
Of course, challenges exist. Balancing the needs, motivations, and availability of volunteers while supporting organisational goals takes flexibility and patience. “I’ve learned to see challenges as opportunities to build stronger connections,” Helen reflects. Her approach has evolved to focus on nurturing relationships and creating a genuine sense of belonging for every volunteer.
Future of Volunteering
Looking ahead, Helen believes the future of volunteering will require flexibility and creativity. Short-term, skills-based, and project-style roles will need to fit into people’s busy lives. She plans to advocate for volunteers, ensuring their voices are heard and contributions fully valued.
When asked why she does what she does, Helen sums it up simply:
“I believe deeply in the capacity of individuals to affect meaningful change, and I consider it a privilege to support them in identifying ways to contribute their unique strengths to our organisation and community.”
Through her leadership, Helen not only strengthens Hospice West Auckland but also empowers volunteers to make a lasting impact on the people, families, and communities they serve.
