Become a Long-Term Advocate
We’re looking for compassionate, dependable people to become long-term advocates.
Become an Advocate
Volunteer With Us:
Make a Real Difference in Your Community
Want to make a tangible difference in someone’s life? Becoming a volunteer Citizen Advocate is a unique opportunity to enrich the life of a person with an intellectual disability right here in Auckland. You’ll become a friend, mentor, and role model, building a special and enduring relationship within your local community. It’s a chance to connect with someone new, learn from their experiences, and contribute to a more inclusive Aotearoa.
Why Volunteer as a Citizen Advocate?
- Gain valuable experience: Develop your communication, interpersonal, and advocacy skills – experience
- Make a real impact: Your support can empower someone to live a fuller, more independent life, contributing to their wellbeing and sense of belonging.
- Build a meaningful connection: Forge a genuine friendship with someone in your community and learn from their unique perspective.
- Flexible commitment: The time commitment is manageable, typically involving meeting up every few weeks, with flexibility around how and when you connect.
- Comprehensive training and support: We provide full training and ongoing support to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective advocate.
What Does a Citizen Advocate Do?
As a Citizen Advocate, you’ll:
- Be a friend and confidante.
- Assist your match in identifying and reaching their goals.
- Connect them with their local community and social networks.
- Encourage them to speak up about their concerns.
- Empower them to make their own decisions.
What to Expect:
- Flexible Schedule: You and your match decide what works best for both of you, whether it’s meeting in person, chatting on the phone, or connecting online.
- Long-Term Commitment: While we offer crisis advocacy for short-term situations, we primarily focus on building long-term, supportive relationships. This role is ideal for those looking for a sustained volunteering experience.
Commitment
As a Citizen Advocate, your schedule is flexible and based on what works best for you and your match—whether that’s meeting in person, talking on the phone, or connecting online. While we sometimes support short-term advocacy, our focus is on long-term relationships built on trust, consistency, and care. This role is ideal for someone seeking a sustained, meaningful volunteer experience.
Ready to Get Involved?
- Contact us: Fill out our online Enquiry Form or find our profiles on Volunteering Auckland or SEEK volunteer NZ.
- Initial chat: We’ll contact you for a brief chat to discuss the role and your suitability.
- Training: If your application is successful, we’ll provide comprehensive training which involves 3x 2 hour orientation and induction sessions. Plus, ongoing support from the programme Coordinator.
Requirements
- A current NZ driver’s licence is desirable.
- A clean police check
- No formal qualifications are required – just a passion for social justice and a desire to make a difference!
Apply to become an advocate
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See how you can help
Current Opportunities:
If you are interested in becoming a citizen advocate, you can apply with our Enquiry Form. We respond to all enquiries.
We also have a number of profiles on Volunteering Auckland or SEEK volunteer NZ.
Become a Crisis Advocate
We\'re looking for compassionate, calm, and reliable people to step into the role of Crisis Advocate.
Associate Advocate
An Associate Advocate is a trusted professional or community member who offers pro bono expertise to support the mission of Citizen Advocacy Auckland.
