It is National Volunteer Week (15 - 22 June), and Arthritis New Zealand Acting Chief Executive Rob Mitchell acknowledges the thousands of volunteers who willingly donate their time to ensure the activities of Arthritis New Zealand continue. "We simply couldnt do what we do in communities across the country without you," he said today.

"Our volunteers help us in so many different ways, such as collecting during our annual appeal, helping with land and water-based exercise classes, driving, volunteering at childrens camps, assisting at seminars, administration tasks in our offices, and so much more. Without them, Arthritis New Zealand would be unable to provide comprehensive support to the 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis."

"Arthritis, it could surprise you. But with the support of volunteers we can break down assumptions, and provide the networks that are so needed in our communities," he concluded.

Arthritis is New Zealands leading cause of disability. Arthritis New Zealand is the national organisation focussed on raising awareness of the more than 140 different forms of arthritis, advocating for those with the condition, and providing advice and support.

We rely heavily on the efforts of our volunteers. If you would like to volunteer for us, we would love to hear from you. Phone 0800 663 463 or visit our website: http://www.arthritis.org.nz.

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Arthritis NZ acknowledges thousands of volunteers