Members were sad to hear of Blairs passing. An enthusiastic and irrepressible member and great fried to many. 

Below is a screenshot of a newspaper clipping put together by Bill and Del some years ago. 

 

Introducing this year's Interact leaders at Pakuranga College - as always a fine bunch of students together with their teacher Adele Siljeur who keeps them under control.

 

Peter Woodcock met the group in early March at a general meeting.
 
The club of about 50 members has already raised close to $2000 with their Valentines Day project and continue to sponsor two World Vision children.

 

 

They have volunteered in large numbers to provide vital assistance at the Carnival and are looking forward to bring involved involvement - more about that later.

I Am Hope was the recipient of the proceeds of last years Diwali celebrations. Below is some material from them.

Members might be interested in the quality of the people they have managed to get on their Board. 

 

Welcome to the first newsletter of the year—time truly flies as we're nearly stepping into March!
Little People, Big Feelings
Our vibrant young ambassadors have hit the ground running, making their way back to schools. This week, they're bringing the "Little People Big Feelings" programme to eight schools across the Otago region in the South Island (pictured below are Lena, Noah & Te Paea). The initiative is nearly booked solid for the year, but we believe there's always room to help more.

 

If you're aware of a primary or intermediate school eager to welcome us, we're more than happy to make space for you.
Register your interest here 

 

Gumboot Friday Update
Exciting news for Gumboot Friday—the incoming government has pledged a significant funding boost of $6 million per annum. While we're yet to see the funds in our account, our board is in talks with the Ministry of Health to kickstart the process. In line with our young ambassadors' wishes, we've committed to directing 100% of this funding straight to counsellors, ensuring every penny supports those who need it most.
 

 

 

 

 

Welcoming Our New Board of Directors
We're thrilled to introduce new faces to our board of directors: 
Naomi Ballantyne (Board Chair): With nearly 40 years in the NZ life insurance industry and pivotal roles in establishing renowned companies, Naomi's vast experience is a beacon for our journey ahead.
Todd Muller: Todd's openness about his mental health struggles and his tenure as a national leader underscore the importance of seeking help—a message we hold dear.

Dame Denise L'EstrangeCorbet: Co-founder of the iconic WORLD brand, Denise's voice resonates far beyond fashion, advocating for mental health and supporting numerous charities.
Troy Elliott: Transitioning from his operational role at I Am Hope to our board, Troy's political acumen and governance experience will undoubtedly propel us forward and we thank him for his continued commitment to our cause

 

Special Project: The Hope Home
We're thrilled to unveil a remarkable partnership with Fowler Homes, who are currently crafting a breathtaking house in Queenstown, known as The Hope Home. This initiative, championed by managing director Jason McGirr and his wife, Jen, draws inspiration from McGirr's encounters with domestic violence and suicides during his time as a policeman, and inspired by our work at I Am Hope. Set to be auctioned off in time for Gumboot Friday on 1st November, all profits going to Gumboot Friday. This project not only aims to significantly boost our fundraising efforts this year but also to heighten awareness and support for New Zealand's mental health crisis. Follow their progress and support this passionate response to a pressing societal issue here.
 

 

Lambs preparing for Calf Club day at a rural school. 

 

Some members might remember those days of feeding,  grooming and training in preparation for calf club day?

The leading and calling and judging?

 

With calves, lambs, goats and chickens now all part of the menagerie those days still take place in rural schools around Auckland.