Louth Volunteer Centre marked International Volunteer Day, last Thursday, by launching a groundbreaking research report titled “The Impact of Volunteering and Future Opportunities for Volunteering in County Louth” at a special event in the Monasterboice Inn.
This celebratory occasion brought together stakeholders, volunteers, and community leaders to recognise the transformative power of volunteering and explore pathways for its future growth.
The new report showcases the profound personal and community benefits of volunteering, highlighting its role in building confidence, fostering integration, and driving community development. The research revealed that:
- 79% of volunteers reported increased confidence
- 76% noted improved interpersonal skills.
- 75% of employers value volunteering experience when hiring
The evening was hosted by Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre. Opening remarks by Richard Hanlon, Chairperson of Louth Volunteer Centre, and Carol West, Vice-Chair of the Local Community Development Committee, provided context for the research findings.
A series of inspiring personal testimonies from four individual volunteers followed, including an inspiring story from Janice Doolin. Once a participant in a women’s group supported by Connect Family Resource Centre, Janice has since become Chairperson of the organisation through her volunteer journey. “Volunteering has given me purpose and pride, and I’ve loved meeting so many different people,” she said.
Authentic Integration through Volunteering
In recent years, there is a growing focus on supporting effective integration for refugees and international protection applicants. Louth has also seen an increase in registrations from new arrivals and volunteering is playing a key role in supporting the integration of he newcomers into our communities..
One highlight from the report, referenced on the night, is that in 2023, 42% of new volunteer registrations in Louth were non- Irish. This increased to 55% so far in 2024. An amazing 66 nationalities are represented in this diverse group in Louth. These volunteers are vital in supporting local charities while fostering cultural understanding and creating a more inclusive society.
After dinner, Emma, Migrant Support Worker at Louth Volunteer Centre, hosted a session with five volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including asylum seekers and migrants. Follyvi Simon Folly, a Louth Community Volunteer, shared his impactful story of how volunteering since his arrival in Ireland, in 2020 has given him a sense of belonging and purpose. His favorite moment was assisting at the “Come and Try Athletics Day” for children with disabilities.
Volunteer programmes that encourage interaction between locals and newcomers promote cultural understanding and break down barriers, creating a more inclusive society for everyone. Strong social bonds are formed, a sense of belonging is fostered and isolation reduced.
The volunteers have an opportunity to contribute positively to society, challenging negative perceptions and fostering mutual respect between newcomers and local residents. It is a ‘win-win’ for everyone.
Volunteering can have a transformative impact on people in Direct Provision in particular, offering them a sense of purpose and belonging while they await their decisions. It provides opportunities to engage with local communities, develop skills, and build confidence, which can be crucial for future integration and employment.
Some of them shared their stories at the event and it was very impactful to hear about their desire to volunteer, despite their own challenging circumstances and learn about the positive outcomes from their volunteering in Louth.
Shaping the Future of Volunteering in Louth
Louth Volunteer Centre is also one of the most innovative in Ireland. It is one of the minority of counties to have a pioneering Community Volunteer programme, where volunteers can help at local events, festivals and in times of urgent community need eg Lú Festival, St Patricks Day Parade and the annual Festive Friends (where a meal and visit is provided to those alone on Christmas Day).
It is also the first county in Ireland to have a pioneering Louth Youth Community Volunteer programme, with some of the participants from De La Salle College Dundalk, attending on the night.
A display of artistic projects from creative volunteer projects, including Crafting Connections & Blankets of Care, and young people from St Joseph’s National School in Mell, and CuChulainn Girls Guides. The majority of the guests were volunteers who participated in the research, which included surveys & focus groups, representing a variety of local charities, community and voluntary groups. Special poems and stories facilitated through Sarah Hope Guppy, added a personal touch to the evening.
An even wider range of volunteer projects including Cultural Kitchen Exchange, Oliver Plunkett’s GAA Memory Garden, all organised by Louth Volunteer Centre and spanning 2024 was on display through a photo carousel on screen throughout the evening.
The atmosphere in the room all evening was pure positivity, welcoming, inclusive, full of laughter and connections, a testament to the power of volunteering in transforming individuals and communities alike.
“Volunteering is the heart of community spirit in Louth. It brings people together, breaks down barriers, and creates opportunities for growth, connection, and inclusion. This research highlights not only the incredible impact volunteers have but also the immense potential for innovation and expansion in the future,” said Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre.
Are you looking to start your volunteer journey? Are you an organisation in need of volunteers? Have a chat with the team at the Louth Volunteer Centre. You can visit their website www.volunteerlouth.ie , find them across all your favourite social media platforms or call Drogheda 041 9809008, Dundalk 042 9392934 / 086 0431379 or Ardee: 086 0226577.
You can read or dowload the report HERE
