A NEW website that boosts the capacity of the events sector and makes it easier for New Zealanders to get involved with volunteering has recently gone live.
VolunteerNet (www.volunteernet.org.nz) connects volunteers with event-based volunteering opportunities.
"It works a lot like an internet dating website where people can register as volunteers
and search for event opportunities that match their skills and experience; and event organisers can register their events and search for volunteers who have the skills and experience they need," said Jude Ellis, New Zealand Major Events, Ministry of Economic Development.
VolunteerNet provides an online volunteer recruitment and database management tool for event organisers, together with easy access to a growing network of volunteers with a wide range of skills and experience.
"Event organisers can post events and volunteer positions on VolunteerNet, including details on the type of skills and experience required.
"They can then search the database to find registered volunteers with those skills and invite them to be part of their event. This supports the premise that more people would volunteer, if they were only asked.
"VolunteerNet is also about promoting volunteering in general, using the short term nature of events and the ability to sign up online to make volunteering more accessible to all New Zealanders."
Anyone can go to www.volunteernet.org and search through the events posted.
Becoming a registered volunteer gives people access to more detailed information about the events and enables volunteers to connect directly with the event organiser (either by applying or by being invited to volunteer).
VolunteerNet also matches volunteers with events, according to the skills and interests outlined in their profiles.
"While capturing the enthusiasm generated by the 2011 Rugby World Cup Volunteer Programme was the catalyst for VolunteerNet, this is not just about sport.
"VolunteerNet caters for events of all shapes and sizes including local community events, art and cultural festivals, fundraising drives and special interest events such as environmental, educational and faith oriented events," said Jude Ellis.
Since going live in late July, over 200 volunteers have registered on VolunteerNet, together with a wide range of organisations and events.
Visit VolunteerNet – www.volunteernet.org.nz today and register as a volunteer or register as an organisation.
