FAQs

TableSide is a charitable trust that strives to help and support people helping and supporting people. If a need in the community arises, the question isn’t “if” but “how” can we help. And because we have found that there is ”wisdom in the crowds,” we try to make needs known to all people and organisations in the community in order to discuss and find the creative solutions needed at the time.

Tables can either build societies, or they can destroy societies. The difference between the two is found in how we welcome others “to the table.” The table has become our metaphor for inclusive communities. Our experience in Auckland has shown us that we don’t really know our neighbours and workmates unless we have a meal, a drink or a shared project that makes us sit at the table together. Community is found at the tableside.

Our conversations with neighbours, workmates and school parents has shown that we all have a desire to do good and practically help each other and our community. However, we have also found that it can be quite difficult to find opportunities to do just that. TableSide Charitable Trust acts to inform community residents of needs that arise, of local organisations that are looking for volunteer help, and also to develop new opportunities to address the local needs of which we become aware.

We see ourselves as being a partner organisation for existing charities and matching needs within those organisations to people who have skills, time and resources to give.

There are multiple ways to help in any given situation. Sometimes you may have specific skill or resource that is particularly suited for a given project, and you can lend a helping hand. Other times you may hear of a need or opportunity that you would like to get people to help alongside with you. However you can help is great: resource, skills, food, finance, information, whatever.

Absolutely. In fact, that was one of the main reasons behind the beginning of TableSide – we wanted to provide opportunities to work alongside and with our kids and show them what it is like to do good for others, and make a positive difference in their neighbourhood.

Sign up online for our regular emails about coming events and opportunities. You can also inform TableSide of needs you become aware of by emailing enquiries@tableside.co.nz.

No, because the people who are part of TableSide are from all over Auckland, you will find that service opportunities are often found all over Auckland as well.