Community Link is pleased to announce the appointment of Lindsey Schofield to the newly created role of Relationship Development Manager.

Lindsey has lived in Wānaka for more than two decades and brings with her extensive experience across both the commercial and not-for-profit sectors. She is well known in the region from her decade as General Manager of the Festival of Colour, where she helped establish the event as one of the regions most significant arts festivals.

In her new role, Lindsey will focus on strengthening Community Link’s relationships with businesses, funders, and community organisations, while supporting the charity’s long-term sustainability.

“I’ve always been active in the community, and when I saw the opportunity to join Community Link, it immediately felt like the right fit for my skills and experience,” says Lindsey. “The organisation has such a strong ethos of care and support — helping people quickly and seamlessly. I’m excited to be part of a team making such a positive impact every day.”

Lindsey’s career has been shaped by strong mentors and a blend of commercial acumen and community-focused leadership. Alongside her fundraising and partnership experience, she brings a deep understanding of the local landscape and a proven ability to build trusted connections.

Community Link General Manager Kate Murray says Lindsey’s appointment marks an important step in strengthening the organisation’s capacity to work alongside businesses and other organisations.

“In her new role, Lindsey will focus on building Community Link’s long-term sustainability in the face of rising demand for services, driven by population growth and cost-of-living pressures, as well as reduced government funding.”

Community Link continues to expand its services across the Upper Clutha, providing vital support to families, seniors, and individuals in need. We are delighted to have Lindsey join the team.”

About Community Link

Community LINK is Upper Clutha's one-stop community support and connection centre, operating across the full welfare spectrum. We operate a foodbank, provide Occupational Therapy support and are the communities link with government and community support services.

We work alongside community organisations to deliver community development programmes that support families, championing seniors, or connecting parents, whānau and caregivers through Path Wānaka.

Our vision is that everyone in the Upper Clutha can thrive. Our Kaupapa is to be kind in our approach; innovative and adaptive in our thinking; inclusive in our relationships; embracing diversity; and honouring community voice.

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