International Volunteers Day Celebration

Hindu Council of New Zealand International Volunteers Day Celebration

Hindu Council of New Zealand (HCNZ) Wellington Chapter celebrated International Volunteers Day (IV Day) on Saturday, 2nd December 2017 at Naenae Community Hall in Lower Hutt, Wellington.

IV Day is a United Nations led initiative celebrated on Dec 5th of each year. The theme for IV Day 2017 is “Volunteers Act First. Here. Everywhere.”

The theme is recognition of volunteer efforts around the world, as well as a tribute to the support volunteers provide in times of instability, disasters or humanitarian crises. Volunteers makes a world of difference just by donating a bit of their talents and time.

The event was well attended by adults and children despite it being a busy time of the year with end of year functions and sports. We organised many enjoyable games for everyone young and old - some were traditional rural Indian games like Kabbadi, Kho-Kho, Bhajia and others were well known games. Around forty children and adults alike had a great time joining in and having fun.

The day ended with a picnic feast of delicious mouth-watering dishes on the beautiful sun drenched lawn with a mild cooling breeze on a stunning afternoon.

Our special guest was Elizabeth Young, National Strategic Ethnic Advisor, Maori, Pacific and Ethnic Services, New Zealand Police. Elizabeth shared the work she does in New Zealand Police and had fun joining in with the activities.

Vinod Kumar, HCNZ President from Auckland, in his message said that “No matter how developed a country is, without volunteers, it cannot function.

The satisfaction one gets from giving is also the highest duty one can perform in his or her lifetime. Accordingly, although it is my duty to thank all our volunteers, one needs to be equally proud and be thankful to the creator to give one and all the best life possible.”

In 2012, Hindu Council of New Zealand has been accorded a Special Consultative Status with United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Hindu Council of NZ is now a part of the Non-Governmental Organizations Branch of the United Nations. This is a recognition for the work of HCNZ volunteers.

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