The network is an initiative by Clutha Development’s Heartland Services, an incorporated society funded by the Ministry of Social Development.
"Clutha has an ageing population and volunteer numbers are diminishing so we thought about what we could do to encourage community connection and improvement," community projects facilitator Kristin Aarts said.
Similar meetings have been held in Owaka, Milton and Lawrence, attracting organisations including Lions, community gardens, volunteer emergency services, Settlement Support and Age Concern.
"We’ve completed a cycle of events and now we’re assessing what we’ve learned for follow-up cycle.
"Let people know how to join your group.
"Organise activities so they can choose when and where to spend their time," she said.
"Young people in particular are more interested in going to an event like a working bee where they can find something to make themselves feel useful than sitting through committee meetings."
As well as helping societies on the lookout for helpers, the initiative assists newcomers to the district to make themselves known and put down roots.
Ms Aarts said the personal wellbeing benefits of contributing to the community would also be promoted.
"There is a real, earned ‘feel-good’ factor of being among others and being seen to contribute to something that benefits other people ... You never know what possibilities, friendships and opportunities can come out of connecting and networking with people and being part of something bigger than yourself."
The Clutha District Volunteer Network has a social media page to help organisations and individuals get together for community improvement.
