National Volunteer Week spotlight – Francesca

Image description: Francesca smiling for the camera. She is standing outdoors beneath a black metal garden archway covered with greenery. A grassy park and trees can be seen in the background.

Finding connection, purpose, and joy through volunteering

“When you volunteer for an organisation you are passionate about, you are giving your time and care to something greater than yourself.”

For Francesca, volunteering is about connection, kindness, and creating positive experiences for others. The relationships she builds along the way are what makes it especially meaningful.

“Volunteering connects people from all walks of life. You learn from each other and connect through chats, activities, kindness, and laughter.”

Based in South Auckland, Francesca volunteers with the Blind Low Vision NZ Manukau South Blind Sports Club, supporting indoor bowls training.

Volunteering can be an adventure

One of Francesca’s most memorable volunteering experiences was earlier this year on a five-day Inspiration Voyage with the Spirit of Adventure Trust, including two Blind Low Vision NZ clients. The voyage focused on challenge, confidence, and personal growth for people with physical and intellectual disabilities.

A moment that stayed with Francesca was helping participants onto the bowsprit netting at the front of the ship. Safely harnessed in, they could hear the water below, feel the sea spray and wind, and experience a real sense of freedom.

“It’s such an exciting and unique experience,” she says. “There was so much laughter, storytelling, banter, and shared connection. It was a real privilege to witness and be part of those moments, and to help describe what was happening around them while we were sailing.”

Close connections through sports volunteering

Closer to home, volunteering with the Manukau South Blind Sports Club has also led to meaningful friendships.

While supporting indoor bowls training, Francesca formed a strong connection with an experienced player, learning new techniques and developing a shared interest in the sport.

“It brings a real sense of purpose to know you are helping create a fun, safe, and positive experience for someone while also supporting their independence,” she says.

For Francesca, volunteering is also about giving time and energy to cause that matter.

Making a difference in the community

“It’s a feeling of making a difference, no matter how big or small, and brightening the people and world around you.”

As part of this year’s National Volunteer Week theme, Your Year to Volunteer – Tōu tau ki te tūao, Francesca hopes more people will consider giving volunteering a go.

“If you are thinking about volunteering, I would really encourage you to try it,” she says. “You don’t need to know everything. It’s fun, rewarding, and such a positive way to give back to your community.

“Each time I volunteer, I step away with a real sense of purpose knowing you have made a positive difference for someone or a group of people that day.”