SPCA Op Shop Te Awamutu manager Kelly Smit, front left, with, back from left, Nicole Reihana, Jim Parlane, Tilly Grobbelaar and Sue Williams.
Te Awamutu’s SPCA OpShop volunteers have been named outstanding opshop team at the 2023 SPCA Purina National Volunteer Awards.
The Te Awamutu store has been open since last February – and volunteer numbers have doubled to eight since early May.
Manager Kelly Smit was delighted with the team’s recognition which came lasty week.
“They’re all brilliant people who keep the job fun,” she told The News.
When Kelly started as manager in December, Tilly Grobbelaar and Nicole Reihana were the only volunteers in the store. Jim Parlane did store deliveries when needed.
Then, Tilly went on holiday. During that time, Nicole supported Kelly as the pair held the fort during the holiday season.
Nicole worked up to five days a week over that period to help see them through, over and above her usual two three-hour shifts per week.
In February, Sue Williams started at the store – and with each team member collectively chipping in, Kelly said they were a saving grace.
“It’s those little things which everyone does on an individual basis each day which add up and make all the difference.
“It was amazing to hear they won – the team really deserves it. Quite honestly, I’d be lost without all eight of them.”
At a celebratory morning tea last week, Tilly said it was “very special” to be recognised.
The rest of the team agreed – saying teamwork is key to how they approach the job.
SPCA’s general manager of people, culture and safety, Liz MacPherson, said the Te Awamutu store winners were a shining example of generosity and a kind spirit.
This is a ratio of 10 SPCA volunteers nationwide to every paid staff member and the annual awards event recognises their contribution.
All told, nearly 150 nominations were received nationwide, across six award categories in 2023 – including a devoted volunteer award and an individual accolade for a volunteer who went the extra mile.
