Emily-Kay Livick never imagined she would one day be leading Achilles Tauranga Moana, but for her, volunteering has always been about whānau.

Her son, Tamahau Hicks, a Year 6 junior para-athlete, lives with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affects his vision and coordination. After playing rugby, specialists said he would need to find a new sport. Determined to keep him active, Emily-Kay discovered Achilles International NZ, where athletes with disabilities are paired with volunteer guides to take part in running events. She is passionate about encouraging other children with disabilities to try long-distance running, creating opportunities for participation and growth.

When the Tauranga Moana chapter needed a new leader, Emily-Kay stepped in, despite living in Karangahake Gorge. “It’s really a team effort,” she says. “We’ve got amazing people running trainings, and we work with the Waikato chapter too. Everyone just pitches in and that’s what makes it special.”

For Emily-Kay, the key to volunteering is consistency. “It’s not the big things, it’s turning up every week. Little bits, over time, make the biggest impact.”

That philosophy extends to her charity, The Neighbourhood Project, which redistributes leftover food and essential supplies to vulnerable whānau across Waihi and neighbouring areas. Emily-Kay and Tamahau often deliver parcels themselves, helping build social skills for him and connection for the community.

This summer, Emily-Kay is helping organise an adaptive beach run at Waihi Beach for children with disabilities across the Bay of Plenty and Waikato. It is part of her mission to open doors, encourage participation, and celebrate every small victory.

“Every little bit of support, every small act, helps someone move forward,” she says.

Emily-Kay’s work with Achilles Tauranga Moana and The Neighbourhood Project shows how consistent efforts can create big, lasting impacts for whānau and tamariki across our communities.

If you’re keen to volunteer, or if your group needs a helping hand, Volunteering Services can connect you. Learn more at www.volunteeringservices.org.nz or call (07) 987 0920.
 

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