Play a part in the life of a person with an intellectual disability and the work IHC does. Join one of our Volunteer programmes.
Search
Our Programmes
IHC is on the look-out for people like you. We welcome applicants age 17 and over, from all walks of life, who have a clean police record, a warm heart and big desire to support others.
We offer a full induction and orientation programme for new volunteers. We also provide ongoing training with specific emphasis on understanding intellectual disability and communication.
Friendship & Group Volunteering
IHC’s Friendship Volunteering programme is about creating meaningful connections and making a positive difference in someone’s life. Whether you volunteer one‑to‑one or with a small group, the focus is on shared interests, companionship, and enjoying time together.
We offer one‑to‑one and group friendship volunteering across the country.
- One‑to‑one volunteering pairs you with a person with an intellectual disability, giving you both the chance to build a personal and mutually enjoyable friendship.
- Group friendship volunteering involves spending time with a small group of people — this could mean catching up together or sharing a skill such as knitting, cooking, crafts, or another hobby.
How you spend your time is flexible and based on what interests you all. You might visit a museum, see a movie, meet for coffee, learn a new skill together, or simply enjoy group conversations and activities.
There’s no set schedule. The programme is built on choice, flexibility, and shared interests. The emphasis is on being part of the community, having fun, and building real friendships.
* Online Volunteering opportunity also available (see below)
Skill-based Volunteering
IHC’s unique one-to-one friendship programme has expanded to include skill-based volunteering. These are shorter, focused projects based on goals the person wants to achieve.
You work one-to-one with a person with an intellectual disability to develop a specific skill, or achieve a specific goal. You set the time commitment to fit the project.
* Online Volunteering opportunity also available (see below)
Administration Volunteering
IHC is New Zealand’s leading provider of services for people with intellectual disabilities. Our Mission is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to supporting people with intellectual disabilities to lead satisfying lives in the community.
As an administration Volunteer you will be supporting a Volunteer Coordinator with a range of administrative tasks to deliver a successful community programme.
Online Volunteering (sits within our Friendship and Skill-based programmes)
The IHC online friendship programme links a person with an intellectual disability with a friend to connect with online or by phone, to have fun and build a friendship. You can connect from anywhere in the country. All communication and engagement with your friend is online – all you need is a digital device!
Spend time with your friend listening to music, doing a virtual exercise session together, playing an online game or just sharing with each other what has happened that week.
