Volunteer Opportunities

Thanks for checking out Blind Low Vision NZ’s volunteering opportunities. People who volunteer at Blind Low Vision NZ make a huge difference to those who are blind, deafblind or have low vision right across Aotearoa New Zealand. There are lots of things you can do – whether you want to help weekly, monthly or every now and then.

In whatever way you would like to help, Blind Low Vision NZ will have something  to suit you. We can put your talents to great use while expanding your experience.

If you don’t see any roles below that you fancy, please send us an email on volunteer@blindlowvision.org.nz telling us about your skills and interests.

 

However you decide to help, thank you – you are literally making a world of difference to someone.

Do you love to organise? Then come and do it for Blind Low Vision NZ. We always need help keeping the organisation running and have lots of local opportunities.

It doesn’t matter whether you have just a few hours available or a lot of time, there will be something you can help with. There are lots of administration and coordination tasks in the various offices around the country.

With training, you could help guide a person who wants to get out and about. For example, you might accompany someone to do their shopping or choose a birthday present. You might also like to volunteer by reading letters and other documents to a person who’s blind, deafblind or has low vision.

If you’d like to support people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision in your local area, Community Support Groups could be the answer. These groups are in communities across New Zealand, and there’s likely to be one close to you.  Group members are always keen to welcome new volunteers. To find out more, call 0800 24 33 33 and ask to speak to the Regional Manager for your area.

If you have a group or team from your workplace who would like to volunteer with us, please get in touch with (GeneralEnquiries@blindlowvision.org.nz) to discuss volunteer opportunities that will suit you and your team.

Whether you’re interested in shaking a bucket for a couple of hours, cheering on our marathon runners, or can be an extra set of hands to help with events set up on the day, there are plenty of ways to get involved in our fundraising events. Email our fundraising team (fundraise@blindlowvision.org.nz) to find out what current opportunities we have. We’d love to hear from you!

There are plenty of opportunities to help out with guide dogs. Visit our Guide Dog Services page for more information.

Being blind, deafblind or having low vision means you’ll be an extra valuable volunteer. Blind Low Vision NZ would greatly appreciate your help. You have a special insight – you know what it’s like to live with limited vision.

There are a huge number of ways you can help and we’ll be guided by your imagination and interests. You could buddy up with someone learning braille. If you’re sporty, there are lots of ways to get involved. Or you might wish to lead a music appreciation group or book club.

There is something for nearly everyone. But if nothing takes your fancy, or you have a personal interest you can start up a new group. Your skills and enthusiasm will be most welcome.

If you love the outdoors, like keeping active or enjoy creative hobbies, we’d welcome your help with one or more of the many Blind Low Vision NZ clubs and activities.

There are tramps, tandem-bike rides and walking groups for the active. There are also music and art activities if you have creative interests.

There are groups and activities all around the country, so it doesn’t matter where you live. You can also start up a new club with a group of interested people. Whatever you choose to do, you’d be making life brighter for people with limited vision.

If you love to explore new technology and help others get the best out of it, Blind Low Vision NZ needs you. Technology is transforming life for people who are blind, deafblind or have low vision, but some need help to get the most out of it. Our expert staff train and advise people, but we know volunteers can help too.

With devices ranging from screen readers and magnifiers, to eBraille and Alexa-enabled devices and mobile apps, there is sure to be a technology or device that is your special love. We’d love you to pass on your knowledge to others. It would make their lives more enjoyable and boost their independence.

You can make a life-changing difference by simply driving someone to a Blind Low Vision NZ site or to their appointments. Please note that Blind Low Vision NZ will reimburse travel costs.

Register to become a volunteer

However you want to help, there’s a place for you in our wonderful volunteer community. Register to become a volunteer today. 

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