Give your time, your words, your presence; tukua te wā ki a koe, ō kupu, ko koe tonu.

GIVING is more than just sharing material things with others. It’s about cultivating a spirit of generosity and actively supporting others.

The acts of giving, receiving and being aware of acts of kindness, even indirectly, give us a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Giving also builds mana and connection with others. At work, a culture of giving helps to build a positive emotional environment and promotes connection, empathy and team work.

Carrying out acts of kindness, whether small or large, can increase happiness, life satisfaction and general sense of wellbeing. By helping others, sharing our skills and resources, we’re doing things that give us purpose and a sense that we’re a part of a team.

Giving is important for everyone – no matter what age you are! Giving helps develop children’s brains and supports them to learn to be kind and generous. Giving gives adults a sense of purpose and improves self-esteem.

Older people who have left the workforce benefit hugely from sharing their time, knowledge, skills and resources.

💗 Join or start and develop a neighbourhood Time Bank.

💗 Take opportunities to support and advocate for groups, friends, family or neighbours in need.

💗 Give a smile away!

💗 Organise or promote random acts of kindness days at school, work or when you're out with a group.

💗 Express gratitude - thank someone.

💗 Join a community clean up day - could be a local stream, river, beach or park - or a tree planting project with friends or family.

💗 If you have fruit trees pop your excess fruit out on the street with a "help yourself" sign.

💗 Donate old toys, books, sports equipment, clothes etc. to a local charity.

💗 Help with school working bees and fundraisers.

💗 Offer to help an older neighbour with their wheelie bins on rubbish/recycling days.