Leonard Ross is our ‘IT Guy’ and currently responsible for fixing up our website, making sure stuff works, but most importantly – he’s recently developed this amazing system where we keep all our client records, assessments and data confidentially and electronically. It has made an enormous difference to our work. Leonard has spent literally hours and hours of his time voluntarily to help Mothers Helpers. Why does he do it? Leonard shares his story…
“After arriving in New Zealand one of the first things that amazed me of the kiwis was their generosity and how much they cared for one another. This was evidenced by the popularity of volunteering and how many people dedicate their time to helping others. Not only did that impress me immensely but it gave me something to aspire to. After many years I am in a place where I can share some of my experience and skills with others, and volunteering is such a wonderful means to do this and give back to a country and people I love.
“I have not volunteered for long at all but being non-native kiwi I found volunteering another exciting way of aiding with my integration into society and a great way to make friends and experience new things. I would have volunteered much sooner if I knew of these benefits in helping me settle into my new environment.
“Volunteering my services made me realise that the skills and expertise I have and take for granted (as I don’t use them anymore in my day job) still have a great deal of value to others. Offering these services takes little effort but can potentially make a huge difference in an organisation that can not afford to pay for these services from an external contractor or at market rates.
“The opportunity to volunteer my services is quite exciting as I am exposed to new business challenges, unknown technologies and unfamiliar situations which is always exciting for someone that loves learning and working on new problems. Not to mention the fact that this experience opened up a better understanding of a raft of social issues previously unknown to me.
“Volunteering has actually had a positive impact on my primary role too as it opens up other possibilities, perspectives and views.
“It is wonderful being surrounded by passionate people, all volunteering for their own reasons but taking pride in what they do and the difference they are making in the lives of people relying on the services offered by Mothers Helpers. I am absolutely in awe of the leadership – their passion and dedication – these qualities are contagious and a natural driver to wanting to help. Being part of a motivated team and organisation is very satisfying as the impact of my contribution is not only making a difference but I get acknowledgement and appreciation for my effort.
“The experience of being valued for my skills, my time and my views has had a truly positive impact on my being too and how I feel about myself. I will most definitely recommend volunteering to anyone.”
My favourite things in life don’t cost any money. It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time. – Steve Jobs
