CLUB CONNECT IS ABOUT COMMUNITIES
It's about creating spaces where people feel welcome, connected and supported.
We all face challenges in life, loneliness, financial pressures, stress at work or at home, worries about friends or family. Mental health isn't only about crisis or diagnosable conditions, it's about everyday wellbeing. By talking openly and supporting each other, we can make a real difference.
That's where Club Connect comes in.
WHAT IS CLUB CONNECT?
Club Connect is a community wellbeing initiative delivered by Clubs New Zealand in partnership with the Whatever with Wiggy Charitable Trust.
It provides clubs with the tools, speakers, and resources to host local events that:
- Start conversations about wellbeing and connection.
- Break the stigma around mental health.
- Equip people with simple ways to look out for friends, family and fellow members.
- Strengthen clubs are trusted community hubs.
WHY IT MATTERS
Mental wellbeing doesn't happen in a doctor's office alone, it happens in everyday places, through everyday connections.
- A quiet check-in with a mate at the bar.
- A laugh shared over a game of darts.
- A neighbour who feels less isolated after a chat at the club.
Clubs already sit at the heart of their communities. Club Connect builds on this, making your club a place where conversations about wellbeing happen naturally and support is easy to find.
HOST A CLUB CONNECT EVENT
Hosting a Club Connect event is simple and stress-free. We provide inspirational speakers (like Craig 'Wiggy' Wiggins and Slade McFarland), promotional materials and event resources. You provide the venue, community spirit and attendees. Together we create a safe, welcoming space where people connect, share and learn.
Club Connect events are designed to be practical, relatable and uplifting - not clinical.
Want to know more about hosting a Club Connect Event? Contact the team at National Office on 0800 425 827 or check out the FAQ here.
HELP US TO SUPPORT COMMUNITIES
Donations received go to helping us run Club Connect events, provide additional training in for areas and support the work of Lean on a Gate.
