Volunteering Waikato Staff

Danielle VanShipley

Danielle VanShipley

Community Advisor (Regional)

Danielle has recently joined the Volunteering Waikato team in July 2024. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology and is currently completing her master’s degree in business management at Waikato University. Prior to this she worked with British Airways in Bombay for over 15 years and has honed her skills in networking and people management. In her free time, Danielle Volunteers at the Cambridge Hospice shop as she wants to be involved with the community and help make a difference.

Contact: regional@volunteeringwaikato.org.nz

Lydia Wills

Lydia Wills

Marketing and Community Coordinator

Lydia joined the volunteer Waikato team in 2024 after graduating from the University of Waikato with a business degree in Marketing and Communications. With a love for community, Lydia is excited to use her marketing skills to increase awareness for volunteering organisations throughout Waikato. Outside of work, Lydia enjoys getting out into the bush for an overnight stay, spending time with her nieces and nephews or reading a good book.

Contact: projects@volunteeringwaikato.org.nz

Michelle Rae

Michelle Rae

General Manager

Michelle began her role as General Manager in October 2024. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from working in the nonprofit sector in the Waikato for several years. Through this involvement, she has witnessed firsthand the impact that volunteers have on communities and is eager to celebrate their contributions, while inspiring others to get involved.

Contact: manager@volunteeringwaikato.org.nz