Give-Takoha | Grow-Whakatipu | Connect-Tūhono.
What Lara gained through volunteering was  more than personal value…

Lara began volunteering with Youthline in her first year of studying Psychology, at first to see if it was something that she could pursue as a career.

“I kind of thought well if I hate it at least I’ll know now, and if I love it then great, and obviously I loved it because I’m still here”.

Through the skills and experience that came from volunteering she was able start working in mental health support.

What Lara didn’t anticipate was the friendship and community she would gain through volunteering.

“I went in wanting to do it because of my personal values and because of my career goals, but the networks I’ve made, the friends I’ve made, and the new skills I’ve learned is just crazy”.

“When you get to the end of training you know that you feel safe to do the work and that other people are really supporting you as well”.

Volunteering has given Lara “such an appreciation of how colourful and complex life is [and] how brave people are in sharing their stories”

Lara’s story is a part of Volunteering New Zealand’s video series, to celebrate Student Volunteer Week (15-21 March 2021).  Collective Impact: Give.Grow.Connect” is the theme of #SVW2021. Student volunteers give a hand to the community, grow as they gain knowledge and create valuable changes, and connect with others. Students, universities, schools and organisations will be celebrating our student volunteers and connect young people with opportunities to get involved in volunteering. 

Volunteers grow people, open minds, open hearts and create joy. We hope this video inspires you to connect with a community or cause you care about.

For information on how to get involved with #SVW2021 visit www.studentvolunteerweek.nz