Taranaki Youth Development Senior Constable Paul Lampe has been recognised by Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) New Zealand for his significant contributions to helping grow our tamariki.
At the BBBS NZ National Hui in Wellington last week, Paul who is also the BBBS Taranaki Programme Director, was awarded the 'Stake in the Ground Longevity Award' to honour his more than 15 years’ service with BBBS Taranaki and his massive contribution to helping match more than 500 tamariki with mentors.
The award symbolises a stake in the ground next to a sapling tree, which gives the tree support and helps it grow well by providing stability and protection. It is presented to BBBS staff who have contributed significantly to the programme’s kaupapa.
BBBS NZ CEO Drew Ewan presented Paul with the award and says that this metaphor represents exactly what 'Bigs' are for their 'Littles', and what Paul is to the organisation.
“Paul established the Taranaki branch of BBBS in 2007 because he knew this was a positive programme that our tamariki needed,” says Drew.
“While he's much too humble to say it, Paul is the only person who has been involved in every single match ever made – a total that just surpassed 500!
“Ngā mihi maioha Paul. It takes a village to raise a child. Mā te pā te tamaiti e whakatipu.”
Paul says he feels very honoured to receive the award.
“It’s pretty cool to receive this award and it has given me an opportunity to reflect on what we as a team have achieved over the last 15 years,” says Paul.
“I want to acknowledge the local team for all their mahi, and our supporters and sponsors who we are deeply grateful for.
“I also want to acknowledge New Zealand Police. To invest in a long term intervention well before the Prevention First strategy was introduced is fantastic as we see so many positive outcomes.
“It’s awesome to be part of a Police and community evidenced-based programme that has an effect on the community directly and where the community can see the results.”
Paul and the BBBS Taranaki Team have been blessed with all the local support they have had, and they recently hosted a coffee and breakfast event in New Plymouth to express their gratitude to their sponsors in person.
“We shared with them just how much their support helps the matches on our programme and is achieving positive outcomes for tamariki,” says Paul.
“The programme wouldn’t exist if it wasn’t for the generosity from sponsors and funders that contribute to this community initiative.”
One recent example of the generosity of local businesses to BBBS Taranaki was Tasman Toyota providing the use of several new Hybrid Yaris Cross for their work.
Paul says it’s important that when staff are travelling and visiting families that they do so in safe vehicles.
“The support from Tasman Toyota has been awesome and now our team not only look professional, but they feel safe,” says Paul.