The Big Shout Out

The Big Shout Out: Celebrating Our Volunteers

On Monday 16 June, we gathered at the Gisborne RSA for a very special occasion – our Big Shout Out Morning Tea. This annual event is all about celebrating the incredible volunteers who give their time, energy, and skills to make our community a better place.

The room was filled with smiles, laughter, and the buzz of conversation as volunteers from a wide range of organisations and communities came together to connect and be recognised. Around one hundred people attended, showing just how strong and connected our local volunteering community is. From those who work quietly behind the scenes to those on the front lines of community service, every volunteer plays an important part in strengthening our region.

We were honoured to be joined by Mayor Rehette Stoltz, who thanked volunteers personally and on behalf of the council. Dana Kirkpatrick MP shared her heartfelt sentiments on the value of volunteers, while Jane Kibble, Volunteer Coordinator at Hospice Tairāwhiti, spoke passionately about how Gisborne would simply stop without all the mahi from our volunteering community. We were also joined by Meng Foon, former Mayor and avid volunteer himself, who continues to show his strong commitment to our region.

We know that volunteering can sometimes be a thankless task, so our Big Shout Out is one way of making sure no one’s contribution goes unnoticed. Over tea, coffee, and plenty of delicious treats, we shared stories of impact, friendship, and the many ways volunteers are changing lives across Tairāwhiti.

We also want to acknowledge the many volunteer coordinators and managers who support volunteers every day. Your leadership helps create meaningful, safe, and rewarding experiences that keep people coming back to help.

A big thank you to Carolyn and the Gisborne RSA committee for hosting us in their welcoming space. It’s always a pleasure to hold community events in venues that hold so much local spirit. And thank you to The Forces Cafe for the delicious kai. All of this would not have been possible without funding from Volunteering New Zealand, who directly invested in this event, and our ongoing funders, including the Lottery Grants Board.

At the Gisborne Volunteer Centre, we believe that volunteering is at the heart of a connected and caring community. Our morning tea was just one way to say “thanks” – but we know the real thanks is in the ongoing relationships, projects, and initiatives that make our region shine.

If you missed this year’s Big Shout Out, don’t worry – there will be more opportunities to celebrate and connect. And if you’re thinking about volunteering or need volunteers for your organisation, we’d love to chat.

Ngā mihi nui to every volunteer in Tairāwhiti. Your generosity and spirit truly make a difference.