Volunteer South is hosting a community event during Mental Health Awareness Week designed to match locals with volunteering opportunities that are the right fit for them. 

“We’re fortunate to have a great range of volunteer opportunities in the area,” Volunteer South representative Neha Gosalia said. 

“Whatever interest people have, there are a diverse range of organisations seeking volunteers to support their cause, and volunteers who help out not only help strengthen our community, they also give their wellbeing a massive boost.”

To that end, Volunteer South is hosting ‘Find Your Perfect Match’ on Monday September 18 at the Wānaka Community Hub, with support from Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Welcoming Communities, and The Kiwi Kit Community Trust.

A range of organisations will be in attendance ready to chat with people who are keen to find out about connecting with their community through volunteering.

“This event fits perfectly with the QLDC’s Wellness campaign and Mental Health Awareness Week,” QLDC wellbeing programmes coordinator Samantha Saccomann said. 

“Whether you are new to the area or have been here a while, we invite you to connect with some fantastic people and organisations in a fun, playful way.” 

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from September 18-24 and this year’s theme is the ‘Five Ways to Wellbeing’ - Take Notice, Give, Be Active, Connect, Keep Learning - as a set of tools to boost mental wellbeing.

Neha said all ‘five ways’ can be achieved through volunteering.

“Volunteering is known to have a huge range of benefits to an individual's wellbeing,” she said.

Find Your Perfect Match will take place on Monday September 18, from 4.30 - 6.30pm at Wānaka Community Hub. Light refreshments will be available.

PHOTO: Rodrigo Leiva Vicencio