THE Hauraki Plains Gazette With which is Incorporated THE OHINEMURI GAZETTE MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY ' “Public Service” MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1950 VOLUNTARY SERVICE

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume 60, Issue 4341, 9 October 1950, Page 4

THE Hauraki Plains Gazette With which is Incorporated THE OHINEMURI GAZETTE MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY ' “Public Service” MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1950 VOLUNTARY SERVICE

One of the most marked changes, according to manv observers, is the decline in the voluntary spirit, particularly during the last 20 years. In general at a period when people have had more leisure time to do more for their communities they have done less, and it is feared there is a generation growing up that does not realise that many of the amenities it enjoys have been made possible only by voluntary service. Today, despite welcome exceptions here and there, there is much discouragement for those who are ready to give Their time and energy for the public welfare. The theory that the State or the municipality should provide all the facilities or amenities a community needs is a barren and costly one. In the first place it denies to the public the satisfaction of, and pride in, work for the welfare of the community. Secondly, it permits a selfish and unbalanced concentration on sport and leisure. Lastly it develops an apathetic and indifferent attitude to the needs of each, community. This trend is no mere reaction to the pressing needs and preoccupations of the war years; the decline in voluntary service was apparent long before the war began. Its causes should be studied by political or social psychologists. Much is heard from the schools about new methods of developing social and civic consciousness and social studies if they are effectiveshould certainly be placing emphasis on community -service. Yet it appears that when young" people begin their careers, and: enjoy the two-day leisure of the 40-hour week they think little of voluntary service. But they cannot be blamed too much when the example of others is lacking. ( Somei may declare that tihe decline in voluntary service has coincided with the rise in State paternalism. , That may be so and the trend cannot be altered in a short time. It is certain, however, that each community will be the richer for the resumption of the voluntary service that in the past did no much to make ouir cities and towns pleasant and healthy places to live in and created a pride in communityprogress that is part of the democratic pattern of New Zealand life. There is still much being done to the great credit of the few, in establishing free kindergartens, maintaining parks, planting trees and ending eyesores, but a very difference attitude by the general public, especially by the younger and more energetic section, is required before the traditions of the pastcan be restored.