Be a Mate

Good mates give back.

 

What is Be A Mate (BAM)?

Be A Mate is all about teaming up with a small crew (usually 8–15 people) and connecting with local community organisations. These group-based volunteer events mean you get to do good stuff AND meet some nice people!

One week you might be volunteering at a beach clean up, the next you’re restoring garden tools with power tools, and then you’re cooking meals for whānau at Araiteuru Marae. Every BAM event is different, and that’s what makes it epic! 😉

If you’re new to Otago Uni or just starting your volunteering journey, BAM is the perfect way to explore the amazing kaupapa happening in our community.

A couple of our Social Impact Leads take the BAM groups out, so you’ll always have a go-to person on the day. So grab your mates, or come solo and find some new ones, and get ready for volunteering that’s hands-on, social, and rewarding.

 

Good mates give back

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Good mates give back 〰️

 

What organisations do you partner with for Be A Mate?

Be A Mate doesn’t stick to one lane, we go where the need is! This series is all about collaborating with incredible local non-profits and jumping into hands-on mahi that makes a real difference.

Here are some of the amazing organisations we’ve visited so far:

  • North Dunedin Shed Society

  • Halo Project

  • Keep Dunedin Beautiful

  • Pātaka Ora, Community Kitchen

  • Little Miracles Trust

  • Pregnancy help

  • Stitch Kitchen

  • Give to Grow

  • Crooked Spoke

How often do Be A Mate events happen?

BAM events pop up around 4–6 times each semester, so there are plenty of chances to get involved! Most events run during the week, but we sometimes throw in a weekend session too.

Each event usually lasts 1–3 hours, depending on the activity and location, just enough time to make an impact without taking over your whole day.

Be a Mate Feedback

“It was great, the two girls running it were so friendly and sweet. Made the experience a lot of fun, and very rewarding.”

“Getting to mix with the community and having a satisfying feeling of giving back to it.”

“Positive vibes, very fun.”