For a love of community
A volunteer’s 10 years of service was acknowledged and three volunteers were presented their accreditation certificates, at the Citizen Advice Bureau Christmas party.
Irene Jeffries started volunteering at the CAB 10 years ago as working part time at a rest home gave her plenty of time to volunteer. ‘‘I worked fours day on, four days off,’’ she said.
She said the friendly group of volunteers, and getting to know more people in her community, had inspired her to stay with CAB, although she now volunteers less as she now works fulltime at a supermarket.
‘‘ But the New Year will bring new resolutions,’’ she said. Jeffries hoped the New Year might inspire more people to volunteer.
Jeff Nobes and Julie Tracey were presented their accreditation certificates by Matamata- Piako District Council mayor Jan Barnes. Pushpa Patel was also awarded accreditation, but was not able to attend the event.
Jean Clancy, chairwoman of CAB, said the three volunteers had gained accreditation by completing four two-hour sessions, two observations of other volunteers and 10 shifts performing various duties.
Barnes encouraged the CAB volunteers to not think they were a small entity.
‘‘This is where the heart of the community is,’’ she said. ‘‘The CAB is a strong entity. They make a difference, they fly under the radar but take the time to make sure they have the tools to support the community.’’
Part of the CAB volunteers’ duties are making bookings for the health shuttle.
From May 1, 2008, when the shuttle started, until the end of November, the shuttle has taken 13,014 passengers.