Foundation of the Blind celebrates valuable volunteers

Media Release

13 June 2013

The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind celebrates valuable volunteers

The Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB) salutes the tireless volunteers who empower and support New Zealanders who are blind or have low vision.

We currently have around 1800 volunteers who regularly give their time. For some of these volunteers, supporting our members is something they have done for several years or even decades.

“Their incredible dedication is crucial to us as a service-providing organisation. Volunteers undertake a myriad of tasks, large and small, and the difference they make is invaluable,” says Alison Marshall, RNZFB National Manager for Volunteer Services.

Narelle Gibson is the secretary and treasurer of the Stratford Community Committee. Alongside her husband Gene (who is blind), she has worked tirelessly for the local community for the last 20 years.

“It was my way of giving back to the community for blessing us with our guide dog. I have been honoured to be able to assist people who are blind or have low vision to become more independent. Whether it is setting up audio-description on a TV or reading information to a member, my greatest reward is when a member smiles and says thank you.”

Some of the many ways volunteers support RNZFB members include:

· Driving our members to eye-related appointments

· Supporting recreation and sporting activities

· Offering support and friendly contact as part of a telephone tree

· Supporting our fundraising appeals

· Caring and helping to socialise our puppies-in-training to become guide dogs

· Recording news and information for the RNZFB’s Telephone Information Service

“Our volunteers make a huge difference to the lives of people who are blind or have low vision,” says Alison. “National Volunteer Week is fantastic opportunity to celebrate their commitment to our community.”

Volunteers across New Zealand will be in the limelight during National Volunteer Week from Sunday 16 to Saturday 22 June.

Organisations around the country will recognise the millions of hours volunteers give to their communities.

The RNZFB will soon be recruiting for volunteers to assist with our national appeal, Blind Week. If you are interested, please visit www.rnzfb.org.nz/blind-week or phone 0800 120 254.

ENDS

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