We were privileged to host a special volunteer appreciation event today in celebration of the invaluable contributions of the thousands of dedicated volunteers across Co Sligo. The event, which we hosted in Queen Maeve Square, was a a resounding success, highlighting our ongoing commitment to promoting meaningful volunteering opportunities and supporting, recognising and honouring the hard work and dedication of all those who give their time and skills freely for the benefit of their communities. Speaking on Ocean FM, who presented their afternoon show live from the event, our Chair, Sinead Barrins, warmly welcomed all those in attendance and expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ relentless efforts and unwavering support. Sinead reminded us all that “it is these volunteers who keep community centres open, the football teams on the pitch and enable the many charities, clubs and community based organisations to provide vital services in every corner of our county”.
It was wonderful to hear the numerous personalised messages of appreciation received from organisations of all sizes in Sligo for individuals who go above and beyond or from those sharing their stories of how a volunteer has improved their life in small and significant ways.
We thank Sean Cunningham of Sligo Welcome Ambassadors, Christina Farrington of Sligo Samaritans and Cathy Quinlan of Northwest Hospice who spoke live on air about the essential role volunteers play in their respective organisations. A presentation of kitted blankets was made to the NW Hospice by the Ukrainian Ladies Knitting Group and was warmly received.
We took this opportunity to thank all volunteers in attendance by presenting certificates, appreciation pins. Thanks to the generosity and support of local businesses, some volunteers won prizes in our free prize draw during the event. It was wonderful to see so many people in attendance and expressing an interest in volunteering from people of all ages and those who have lived in Sligo all their lives to those who have joined our community more recently.
Overall, this was an inspiring event and we are very grateful to all those volunteers who helped us to set up and run the event. Thank you so much!