IHC Op Shop
New IHC Op Shop opens its doors
Staff, volunteers and representatives of IHC have celebrated the official opening of their brand new op shop in Pukekohe.
The new 2,500 sqm premises at 7 Hall Street are a step-up from the previous store on Seddon Street, but the staff and volunteers are old hands at moving – this is their fourth shop in their 25 years of trading.
Counties IHC Association acting chair Mick Irwin welcomed everyone to the celebrations on 29 March, with chair Mike Moloney (who was unable to attend) represented by his son, Michael. Andrew Bayly, MP for Port Waikato, was on hand to officially open the premises for business.
The IDEA Services Counties Area Kapa Haka Group gave a fantastic performance, including songs and poi twirling, which Mr Bayly acknowledged. “Thank you to everyone that has worked so hard and contributed towards this marvellous facility,” he said. “It is people like you who contribute so much to the community and add such spirit.”
Mick Irwin suggested Mr Bayly might be able to help them get the 10-minute car parking extended outside the premises on Hall Street. “Ten minutes isn’t nearly enough time to shop here,” Mr Bayly laughed.
The Hall Street shop is open 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and 10am to 1pm on Saturdays, and is managed by Keita Lawrence, with her mum, Wai, as assistant manager. All other staff are volunteers, with around six to seven in the shop at any one time, on hand to assist with sales and donations. All uniforms are provided by IHC.
“They’re just wonderful people,” Ms Lawrence says. “So many gave up hours and hours of their own time to help with the move.”
“We could do with some more volunteers,” Mr Irwin adds. “Young or old, anyone that’s able-bodied. People love working here – we are like their other family.”
IHC is New Zealand’s largest provider of services to people with intellectual disabilities and their families, and the op shop is just one of many fund-raising initiatives. Funds raised by the shop will be spent in the local community, helping to support people with intellectual disabilities to enjoy great lives.
Mainstream services are provided through IDEA Services, a subsidiary of IHC Group. Angie Kumar, Counties area manager for IDEA Services, says they have employed a new part-time community liaison officer who will act as the contact person in the community to support families that need help. The liaison coordinator role is also funded by the association and provides support to the Counties area.
Kids Pottery workshops with artist Madison Cowper
Swap the usual routine for something a little more colourful. Join us at Franklin Arts Centre for a fun morning of creativity. Come, meet new friends and make and paint your very own pottery!
Suitable for ages 4 and up. No experience needed, just bring yourself and your imagination. Wear something you don't mind getting dirty. We’ll provide all the materials, easy guidance, and an open-hearted, supportive teaching environment to encourage you to make whatever you like! Participants will be shown how to make a mug, a bowl, a planter or a pet, but they are more than welcome to bring their own ideas.
🖌 What’s Included:
🌸 Clay and professional guidance
🎨 A wide range of tools, paints and brushes
🎶 A fun, supportive atmosphere with music and good vibes
You can take your unfired piece home, or leave it with us to be professionally fired and glazed for an additional $20. The additional fee can be paid with cash in person. The finished piece can be collected from FAC 2 months after the event.
Session 1 Monday 12th January
Session 2 Tuesday 13th January
10am -12pm
Wētā room, Franklin Arts Centre
To book:
Monday 12th Jan Session: www.eventfinda.co.nz...
Tuesday 13th January Session: www.eventfinda.co.nz...
Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
What’s your take on asking for a receipt if a gift doesn’t fit?
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79.3% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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20.7% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️💥❔
What has a head but no brain?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
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