A special event is happening in Katikati to mark National Volunteer Week next month – and it needs more community groups to participate.

Hosted by Volunteering Services and Katch Katikati, the Katichat event on June 17 from 10am-11.30am at The Arts Junction, 36 Main Rd, will be focused on volunteering.

Local community organisations were invited to register to speak on what their group offers the community and what’s involved in running it.

“We’re still looking for five community groups or local non-profits to come and speak if they want – which may help them secure new volunteers,” said Katch Katikati manager Jacqui Knight. “We have allocated 15 spaces. So if people are keen to come and talk to the group – they just need to register to me. They come along on the day – and the general public is invited to hear about what community groups exist locally or to get a bit more information about what’s involved in volunteering locally.”

So far community groups signed up to talk included Katikati Open Air Art, Katikati Lions, the coffin club, St John, the foodbank, the repair café and fire and emergency services.

“A group just needs one individual who is able to stand and talk for five minutes to the public about what’s involved in volunteering for their group.”

Knight said learning about volunteering options in the community is vital for Katikati to progress as a community and support its own.

“I think part of the strength of Katikati is the amount of volunteer groups and services that we have and the high percentage of active retirees who want to be involved and still do things in the community,” she said.

“So this is a great opportunity for anyone in the community wanting to do that and have that stimulation to be part of the community to see what’s out there and how they may be able to help out.”

Knight said the special Katichat event on June 17 is open to the public but attendees must pre-register by phoning 07 549 5250 or email:[email protected] for catering purposes.