Rise issue 1

The theme of this edition is 'family and whanau'. This emphasises the importance that we place on building strong families, in turn creating vibrant communities and a thriving nation.

Not time to stop talking - yet

It's an interesting time to be talking to Dame Silvia Cartwright.
Domestic violence and child abuse, two issues close to her heart, have been at the forefront of the public's attention in recent months.

Campaigning to end Family Violence

A national campaign aims to condemn family violence as 'not okay', and to know that it 'is okay' to ask for help. The first step in getting there is for New Zealanders to recognise family violence in all its forms.

Extreme makeover needed

Di Grenell of Northland's Amokura Family Violence Prevention Project, speaks at the National Campaign Launch.

The courage to be Corrinne

Corrinne is nothing short of a legend in the community - larger than life with pink and blue braids, she has her own column in the community newspaper, a radio show and is the Violence Free Wairarapa Co-ordinator.

Working for Families

In 2004, despite a robust economy, many New Zealanders still received social assistance for all or part of their income, while at the same time many employers experienced skill and labour shortages.

Passion for people

In the City of Sails, Regional Commissioner Isabel Evans is driven by her passion for people.

Unity is strength for families

From sceptic to committed collaborator, Jo Anne O'Connor remembers her first Strengthening Families meeting three years ago.

Magical Mantra

Regional Commissioner Jannie Dowding explains how making every contact count improves the social and economic landscape of Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast.

A few good men

Andrae Gold, Blenheim health promoter and local anti-violence campaigner wants the community to speak out against violence, and would like to see more men working to end violence in the region.

Cooking up a storm

From a staff suggestion in Greymouth to over 30,000 copies across the nation, The Great Little Cook Book continues to be in huge demand. But first it had to pass the ultimate food critics.

Communities Plot their own Course

Local Services Mapping allows increased self-determination for communities, but how does it work? Angie Tangaere, Regional Relationship Manager with Family and Community Services, tells us.