International Volunteer Day 2025 at Kaibosh

Every contribution matters

At Kaibosh, we know that a stronger, more connected community isn’t built by one big act – it’s created through thousands of small, meaningful contributions made every single day.

This International Volunteer Day, we’re celebrating the power of collective action and shining a light on our incredible network of 250+ volunteers who show us exactly what “Every Contribution Matters” looks like in action.

Our volunteers give much more than their time. They bring their energy, ideas, diverse experiences, passion for people and planet, and a shared belief that good food should never be wasted.

Whether out on the road supporting our drivers to collect rescued kai, sorting and checking food for quality and packing it with care for people in our communities, cooking in our Kaibosh kitchens, or using their skills to help behind the scenes—each volunteer plays an important role in our Kaibosh mission to reduce food waste and provide healthy kai to those who need it. These incredible people are truly at the heart of our mahi and we couldn’t deliver our vital service for our communities without them! 

More than hands-on help — shaping our culture 

Volunteers are woven into the culture of Kaibosh. From sparking joy on busy mornings, bringing laughter and connection to our food sort teams, their kindness and care flow through Kaibosh and their ideas help us improve and adapt. Our volunteers bring perspectives from across our community—different ages, cultures, careers and walks of life—all feeding into an organisation that thrives on diversity. 

Many of our volunteers go above and beyond in their support for Kaibosh. They advocate for us in their neighbourhoods, share our kaupapa with friends and whānau, help out at community events, champion sustainable living, and bring new people into our Kaibosh whānau. Volunteers are our ambassadors, our storytellers, and our biggest advocates. 

Every contribution matters

Together, our volunteers have helped us rescue and redistribute over 5 million kilos of good food over the years. But the numbers only tell part of the story. The real magic lies in teamwork and the power of collective spirit – hundreds of people each doing their part, creating something bigger than any one person could achieve alone. 

This year’s theme for International Volunteers Day is “Every Contribution Matters,” reminding us that impact is built from many individual actions. At Kaibosh, every volunteer who shows up, lends a hand, shares a skill, or brings a smile contributes to a healthier planet and a more nourished community. 

To our incredible volunteers: thank you!

Thank you for showing up—week after week, through the seasons! 

Thank you for your mahi aroha, your heart, your energy and your commitment to our mission. We are proud of what we have achieved together.

Thank you for being the backbone of Kaibosh and belief that food rescue makes a difference. It does! And, it’s every contribution that makes it happen.