Star Jam has the role for you
Have you heard of Star Jam – do you know what it is about??
StarJam Vision:
A world in which people with disabilities are respected, encouraged and accepted by their communities
StarJam Mission:
Young Kiwis with disabilities change the way New Zealanders view people who are disabled, Celebrating their unique talents through the power of Music, Dance, and Performance
Star Jam gives young people the opportunity to experience “different doesn’t make you less “How do they do this??
Each week they hold 90 minute workshops, Jammers learn new skills, make friends, grow their confidence, feel inspired and inspire others. And they’re free to just be themselves and have an epic amount of fun.
What does the workshop look like you ask?
• It is for young people with any disability aged between 6 and 25
• There are a maximum of 12 Jammers per workshop
• Weekly workshops involve dancing, singing, drumming or guitar/band
• Workshops are held in the evenings and there are 3 here in North Taranaki
• 90 minutes of fun led by a talented Star Jam Tutor and at least two volunteers
• This is free for all Jammers
So, after reading this would you like to make a real difference to the lives of young people with disabilities and their families? Do you want to be part of an organisation which breaks down walls and contributes to a world in which every person with a disability is respected, encouraged, and celebrated for who they are and who they want to become?
Do you want to see happy tears, proud parents, and amazed audiences? Of course you do! So, whatever your skills, availability, or passions, there’s a volunteer role waiting for you!
Where can you learn more?
If you are interested to learn more about Star Jam, listen to Volly Voices on Access Radio when Elizabeth & Aileen chat about what is happening at the local Star Jams and what is involved and where their Jam locations are.
This can also be listened to on:
Spotify open.spotify.com...
Apple Podcast podcasts.apple.com...
Access Radio website www.accessradiotaranaki.com...
Volunteering New Plymouth website www.volunteeringnewplymouth.org.nz...
Who can you contact?
If you curious to learn more about STAR JAM and /or you are interested in becoming a volunteer with this great group, please contact Wendy at Volunteering New Plymouth on 06 758 8986;
E: admin@vnp.nz or Ph/Text: 022 571 4228 to take the next step.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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16.7% A week before Christmas
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32.4% Whenever you wish
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.