IHC programme needs more men
Intellectual disability advocacy group IHC is on the lookout for more male volunteers to help with its friendship programme in the top of the south.
The programme aims to provide greater social connection for people with intellectual disabilities, by matching them with volunteers in one-to-one friendships. IHC Marlborough Nelson volunteer coordinator Jane Peoples said that while there plenty of female volunteers, there was a lack of men stepping up to help out.
‘‘We have a lot of guys (with intellectual disabilities), so we have a need for more male volunteers.
‘‘Having a positive male role model for them to hang out with – some of the guys would really benefit from that.’’
Blenheim volunteer Frank Graham said he had been involved in the programme for about 21⁄2 years, after being prompted by one of his friends, who was also a volunteer.
Graham was matched with Dylan Lucas, and since then he has made time almost every Thursday for them to catch up.
‘‘Dylan just likes having a friend – we get out and do active things, the family is pleased he’s out there doing physical activity and doing new things.
‘‘For me, it gives me a sense of being useful to help someone, but it also has developed into a friendship, and I really value that.’’
Peoples said the programme was flexible and wasn’t timeintensive, but could make a huge impact in the lives of those involved. ‘‘It opens up a whole new world for those with intellectual disabilities.’’
If you are interested in getting involved in the programme, contact Jane Peoples on 03 538 1115 or jane.peoples@ihc.org.nz, or you can inquire online at ihc.org.nz/ volunteer.