When the Tauranga YMCA finally moved into a building of its own in September, Phil Simpson felt a huge sense of satisfaction.
Mr Simpson has been involved with the organisation since 2000, and is currently the president and a board member.
It's being "part of the team" and seeing successes such as the new headquarters in Devonport Rd which make volunteering so rewarding, Mr Simpson said.
The Otumoetai man has been recognised for a lifetime of volunteering, receiving a Queen's Service Medal in the New Year Honours.
As well as his involvement with the YMCA, Mr Simpson is also a board member and chairman of Avalon Inc, a vocational service for the physically and mentally disadvantaged.
He was also involved in Rotary for 30 years, first in Tokoroa and Rotorua, and then Otumoetai.
Mr Simpson, 70, was "very surprised and quite overwhelmed" to learn of his award.
"Volunteering makes a huge contribution to the overall social fabric of New Zealand," he said.
"Thousands and thousands of volunteers are doing great work, and for some reason I've just ended up the person who has been honoured.
"I would say I got this honour on behalf of a lot of volunteers."
Mr Simpson, who has been married to wife Norma for 42 years and has one daughter, retired from his work as a surveyor two years ago.
Now his volunteer work is virtually a full-time job in itself, but he's happy to be able to to "give back" to society.
"I think the community does need assistance and service from people who can give their
time.
"My family has always been community minded, and I've grown up with that. "I've always had a bit of a hankering to help and support people a lot less fortunate than myself.
"When you are getting paid, the community is supporting you, and then you get to the stage when you have a bit of spare time, and you can give back to the community."
Helping people at Avalon develop skills had been extremely rewarding, he said.
"They do a great job. They help develop self esteem, and let them lead a more meaningful life in the community.
"I like to see people achieving. Seeing their progress has been absolutely magnificent."
Mr Simpson has also served on the Parent Teachers Association Committee of Matua Primary School and Otumoetai Intermediate School, and has been active with the Tauranga Veteran Golfers' Society.
Driven by a need to help others
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