Celebrating Our VolunteersInternational Volunteers Day 2024
Today, on International Volunteers Day, we take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the incredible achievements of our volunteers at The Forest Bridge Trust. Every trap set, every connection made, and every story shared has brought us closer to creating a thriving future for both people and nature.
A Year of Remarkable Growth
2024 has been a year of significant growth and connection. Our volunteer network expanded with the addition of 30 new members, bringing our team to an impressive 150 strong. With their dedication and enthusiasm, we established several new traplines, increasing the reach and impact of our predator control efforts.
But numbers tell only part of the story. This growth isn’t just about more hands on deck; it’s about the connections formed within our community. This year, we introduced more social events in each trapline area, creating opportunities for volunteers to meet face-to-face, share experiences, and strengthen the bonds that make our network so special.
To further enhance communication, we launched WhatsApp groups for most of our 23 traplines, ensuring volunteers stay informed, supported, and connected. These groups have become hubs for sharing updates, celebrating successes, and offering encouragement.
Sharing Stories and Inspiring Others
At the start of the year, we introduced our quarterly Volunteers Newsletter, a platform to highlight the amazing work of our volunteers. From personal stories of success to updates on group achievements, the newsletter serves as a source of inspiration and a reminder of what we can achieve together.
Women Leading the Way
One of the standout moments this year was the Women’s Trapping Workshop, held in April as part of Auckland’s ECOFEST. This event provided a safe, nurturing space for women to learn trapping skills, ask questions, and build confidence.
The workshop culminated in a scenic nature walk through one of our traplines, giving participants a hands-on opportunity to apply their new knowledge. The impact didn’t stop there—one attendee was so inspired by the experience that she went on to start a predator-free group in her community, extending the reach of our efforts exponentially.
Empowering Kaitiaki and Building a Legacy
At the heart of The Forest Bridge Trust is a commitment to bridging the gap between people and Te Taiao, empowering individuals to take on the role of local stewards and kaitiaki. By fostering these connections and providing tools and knowledge, we ensure that the restoration and protection of our native ecosystems remain sustainable and impactful for generations to come.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Volunteers
None of this would be possible without the dedication, passion, and hard work of our volunteers. Whether you’ve set traps, attended workshops, shared stories, or simply lent a helping hand, your contributions have been invaluable.
As we celebrate this International Volunteers Day, we’re reminded of the power of community and the incredible things we can achieve together. From expanding our network to empowering individuals, we’ve made incredible progress this year—and it’s all thanks to you. Here’s to continuing this journey together, building a thriving corridor where both people and nature can flourish. Thank you for being part of our story and for making a difference.
Happy International Volunteers Day!
How You Can Get Involved
We’re always looking for new volunteers to join us in our mission. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and a passion for the environment. 📧 Interested? Email Elena at elena@theforestbridgetrust.org.nz to find out more about opportunities in your area.
Together, we’re creating a sustainable future for both people and nature. Join us in making a lasting impact.