The Big Shout-Out 2025 Spotlight: Celebrating Our Telefriend Volunteers

Throughout June, Blind Low Vision NZ is proud to celebrate The Big Shout-Out, a month dedicated to recognising the volunteers who give their time, heart, and talents to help others across Aotearoa. We’re starting with a heartfelt thank-you to the amazing volunteers behind our Telefriend service.

The Telefriend team may not wear capes, but they make a real impact in the lives of others. This small, close-knit group of volunteers ranges in age from their mid-60s to mid-80s. Every one of them is a Blind Low Vision NZ member, and many have been part of the service for years—some for over two decades!

They are rostered to take calls on the 0800 Telefriend number, and many also make regular care calls to other members, offering a friendly voice and a compassionate ear. Whether it’s sharing personal stories, offering practical tips, or simply listening, their goal is always the same: to let others know they’re not alone.

Why do they do it? For the people. For the joy of hearing someone smile over the phone. For the chance to give back in a way that’s personal and powerful. As one volunteer shared, “We’re not counsellors, but we can make a difference.”

The team says what makes this role so fulfilling is knowing that a simple call can change someone’s day. And as much as they give, they receive just as much in return—from the friendships that form, to the personal growth that comes from connecting with others who understand.

Telefriend is more than a service—it’s a lifeline, a listening ear, and a reminder that connection matters. To our volunteers, thank you. You remind us all what community truly means.

Want to know more about Telefriend? Visit our Telefriend page.

Image Description: Our wonderful Telefriend volunteer team. From left to right: Michael, Lesley, Sue, Paul (Zooming in on a large monitor in the background), Gail, Heather, Kevin, and June. Everyone is smiling for the camera.