Community Profile

Kia ora!

My name is Alyssa Bright

I recently joined the Community Team as one of the Community Development Facilitators here at the WDC, focusing on Family Violence Prevention and Alcohol & Drug Harm. I originally hail from Michigan in the U.S. and have a solid Midwestern accent to prove it. I live locally with my husband and young son (no pets to speak of…yet!), and can often be found on the hunt for a new playground, hosting a game night, or watching a good movie. I have ten years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, primarily focused on empowering young people to be present, active, and ready to learn in their communities. This work has taken me to places as diverse as Tajikistan, China, Malaysia, and most recently here in New Zealand where I’ve spent the last few years managing volunteer wellbeing and programme delivery across Te Waipounamu for GirlGuidingNZ. These experiences have provided me with strong skills in communication and team development, and a really helpful perspective to work from as I pivot to council work. I’m excited to join such an incredible team, supporting our local communities together. Please feel free to contact me TuesdaysThursdays from 8.30am-5pm at alyssa.bright@wmk.govt.nz or 0800 965 468. Alyssa

Hello

My name is Kim Jackson

I have just joined the team at Presbyterian Support Upper South Island as their HomeShare Coordinator, based in Rangiora. This is a role I am very excited about as I have a ‘passion for people,’ especially older people. HomeShare brings a small group of older people, who may be socially isolated, together in a Volunteers HomeShare Host’s private home for friendship, fun, laughter and a meal. In some areas, we also have a van service which can safely deliver clients to the HomeShare for a minimal donation. The feedback I have received from participants demonstrates that this service is invaluable within the community. Some of our clients and hosts have been a part of HomeShare for several years and can’t speak highly enough of the difference it has made in their lives. Not only do they connect with others, they also go out walking together, have lunch at various venues and engage in some entertaining activities at the Host’s home in a warm, welcoming environment. Consequently, we are always on the hunt for more hosts to offer their time, home and hospitality so we can continue to enable these social connections to happen. If this service is of interest to you, give me a call on 027 413 2296, 03 261 2880 or my email is kimj@psusi.org.nz We’d love you to join our team! Kim