Volunteer Story Writer
Volunteer Kāpiti managed by Volunteer Kāpiti
This is your chance to tell the stories that matter. You'll interview volunteers and community organisations between Paekākāriki and Ōtaki, then help develop clear, engaging stories that celebrate their mahi and impact.
Your stories go back to the people you interview, for them to share in their own way. This is flexible, remote mahi that fits around your life. Interview by phone, video, or kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face), and write from wherever suits you.
You'll work across three areas of storytelling:
The Big Why: A mission-level piece (1500 words maximum) telling the story of why the organisation exists, and why the organisation matters in our community.
**Programme and Project * Shorter stories that highlight specific programmes and services, ours and our member organisations', so our community knows what's happening and how to get involved.
Voice of the Volunteer The heart of it all: individual volunteers sharing why they volunteer, the impact they see, and their story in their own words.
You don't need to be an experienced writer. We have tools, templates, and editorial support to help you along the way, whatever stage of your writing journey you're at.
What happens to your stories
Once a story is finished, it goes back to the organisation or volunteer it's about, for them to use and share. We don't publish on their behalf. From time to time, we may share a story on Volunteer Kāpiti's own Facebook page.
Impact of your mahi
Your stories shine a light on the quiet, generous contributions people make across our community. You'll help more people see themselves in volunteering, celebrate those already giving their time, and strengthen the mana of the organisations doing this important work.
Skills you'll gain
Storytelling and narrative writing, from mission pieces to short updates to personal profiles • Interview techniques and active listening • Plain language and accessible communication • Meeting publication deadlines •Understanding of volunteer sector communications
We welcome storytellers of all ages, backgrounds, identities, and abilities. Whether you're a student, retiree, emerging writer, experienced communicator, or simply someone who loves celebrating people, we'd love to hear from you.