Join Kate and Royce for our final episode of 2024. We reflect on what's been, as well as introduce you to some of the behind-the-scenes team members of the Helping Heroes podcast. We even take a sneak peak of what may lay ahead in 2025. And to wrap things up, we give a big thanks to all the Helping Heroes in our communities wherever they may be in this wonderful country! We look forward to seeing you all again in 2025.

Ian from the Salvation Army talks about the popular Salvation Army Bridge Programme. Then he and Bonnie discuss their wider vision of eradicating poverty in New Zealand in thier current roles within the Social Policy & Parliamentary Unit of the Salvation Army in Wellington. Discover the hidden power of the Salvation Army's research and advocacy work as they inform and influence government policies of social concern.

Mike, a passionate photographer, shares his heartwarming journey with parkrun. Discover how this free, weekly event brings individuals and families together Saturday mornings. Parkrun means different things to different people. From volunteering to crossing the finish line, Mike explores the many ways you and your family can participate in this global phenomenon.

Kane, manager of Kainga Aroha, discusses how he and his team promote empowered community in the Te Awamutu area. Kate is intrigued by the rangatahi summer camp and how they grow leaders. And she is impressed with the range of services offered by this community house with a big heart. Kane talks about perseverence and working collaboratively to overcome intergenerational trauma. And he observes a new generation facing the challenges of a new world.

Phil and Wendy continue their discussion of ME Respite, their aims and ambitions. Hear their story of finding strength, purpose, and compassion in the face of adversity. Part two of a two-part story that leaves Kate and Royce deeply moved.

Join Phil and Wendy, from ME Respite, in a heart-to-heart conversation with Kate and Royce. Discover how they found strength, purpose, and compassion in the face of adversity. Part 1 of a 2 part conversation that leaves Kate and Royce deeply moved.

Martin and Vicky, from Age Concern, discuss the ways in which they support, show love, and protect older friends and the vulnerable situations they can find themselves in. Kate and Royce learn they ways in which Age Concern proactively keeps a watchful eye on our community. Learn how you can get involved in volunteering with this precious community agency.

Zane, from Level Playing Field, shares his inspiring mission to make sports accessible to all children in New Zealand. Kate is captivated by the organisation's straightforward approach and the incredible work of its team. Discover how Level Playing Field is making a positive impact on young lives across the country and how you can contribute.

Andre, from Note2Self, shares inspiring insights from his transformative workshops which focus on overcoming self-limiting beliefs. He explains how these workshops are helping people live into their potential. Kate is impressed with the lived experience Andre brings to his work talking about mental wellbeing. Learn how you can possibly access these incredible workshops through your workplace.

Sev and Tony continue their talk about Prison Care Ministries. Kate dives deep into the challenges faced by the organisation, the staff, and those that access their services. Don't miss this powerful conclusion to our two-part special. Part 2 of 2.

Sev and Tony, pastors at Prison Care Ministries, share their uplifting yet often challenging experiences of supporting people in prison and on release. Kate admires their relationship approach to working with people. Royce is moved by their faith. Discover the heart-warming stories and harsh truths of PCM as they work providing hope and care to people facing difficult circumstances. Part 1 of 2.

Renee and Dianne, from CFSS, talk passionately about how they work hard at keeping hope alive by helping people, whanau, and families to take back control of their lives. Learn about their free financial and parenting programmes, and much more. Kate reflects on her experience working as a social worker referring people to CFSS. Royce laments his own money skills and admires Dianne's financial mentoring and advocacy services.

Neroli and Adam, from Evolve Peer Support, share insights into their growing range of services designed to help those experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Neroli and Adam speak passionately about their experiences. Adam highlights his inspiring work as a facilitator. Kate reflects on the powerful and unique support that peers offer, and Royce shares his journey of anxiety, depression and peer support.

Colleen and Josiah, from Brain Injury Waikato, discuss brain injuries and how to access information and support that aids recovery. Royce is taken aback by the stats that highlight this important health topic, and gets excited about the free Peer Support training coming very soon. Learn how you can become a force for good in the community by accesssing this incredible training.

Scotty and Denver discuss their incredible roles as Volunteer Fire Fighters in Ngaruawahia. Kate considers joining the Brigade. Royce is surprised by the sheer size of the territory covered. Learn about the different roles you can volunteer for. And Scotty and Denver share their top fire safety tips.

Phil and Mike, managers of FreeFM, discuss how community radio champions the ideal of a voice by the people for the people. Learn how you can start your own podcast with the support of FreeFM. And Kate speaks from the heart about her gratitude to the entire FreeFM team.

Kate talks about her field trip to the new NZ Blood Service donor centre in Hamilton. Kate and Scott donate some plasma. Dani explains about platelets and their vital importance. And Mikyla shares her thoughts on what it is like to be a recipient and how that inspired her to change her career path. Part 2 of 2.

Scott, Donor Relations Co-ordinator for the NZ Blood Service, reveals the true heroes of the service and how they impact countless lives. Scott also explains the urgent need for plasma donors and Kate makes plans for her contribution to the plasma cause. Part 1 of 2.

Neil, manager of the Western Community Centre, explores the ways in which the centre has fostered connection and support for locals. Something this Hamilton icon has been doing for over four decades.

Nic, one of the managers of Habitat for Humanity, discusses op shops, rental housing and home ownership. Hear Nic tell the intriguing story of how and why this international organisation was founded.