A new position at the South Taranaki District Council (STDC) is proving to be a win-win for volunteers and the district’s communities.
Seven months ago, Alice Arnold was appointed as the Council’s first places and spaces volunteer coordinator. Employed three days a week Alice works alongside volunteer groups involved in public ‘green’ places and spaces such as parks and reserves to support community driven initiatives and enhance the environment.
“My role is to coordinate and facilitate volunteer community groups, helping them contribute to horticultural and outdoor projects and maintenance work across public parks and spaces in South Taranaki,” says Alice.
“We have many people who want to get involved and already do something on a voluntary basis in the community. I can support or coordinate their activities, particularly considering the requirements around health and safety,” she says.
With a current focus on horticultural initiatives, Alice helps groups in suggesting appropriate plantings for specific locations, enriching the beauty of the district’s public spaces.
“As the liaison between volunteer groups and the Council, particularly the STDC Parks team it’s important to ensure the volunteer work complements the ongoing efforts of the Parks staff in the spaces and places they oversee.”
In addition to coordinating volunteer activities, Alice also ensures the safety of the active volunteer groups by providing guidance on health and safety matters when needed.
Some of the groups Alice is currently working with include the Pātea planting volunteers, Manaia Maara Kai (community garden), Te Paepae O Aotea student planting group, Restore Eltham (planting at Soldiers Park), the Friends of Hāwera Parks and their sub group that volunteer in Goodson Dell, Hāwera Cemetery and King Edward Park.
STDC properties and facilities operations manager, Phil Waite, was delighted with Alice's expertise and dedication, and recognises the invaluable role she will play in developing strong volunteer programs that promote civic participation and improve community well-being.
“I believe that Alice's leadership will inspire and mobilize residents, growing our culture of volunteerism and community,” Phil says. “This approach maximizes the positive impact volunteers have and creates a collaborative partnership between community-driven projects and the Council’s objectives,” he added.
Alice has a clear vision of what she wants to achieve.
“I get so much satisfaction supporting those people who want to do something positive for their community. I want to strengthen the volunteer network, streamline processes, and establish a framework that nurtures a sense of pride and engagement among volunteers. I also want to ensure the longevity and succession of volunteer efforts by actively linking new individuals and groups to ongoing volunteer projects and spaces, allowing the hard work already invested to continue and thrive in the long term.”
Individuals and/or groups interested in participating in planting/gardening volunteer activities or seeking further information are encouraged to contact Alice on 0800 111 323.
