Ardee Garden Project Shortlisted for National Age-Friendly Award
By ArdeePost Reporter
The Ardee Garden Care & Repair Project has earned a prestigious nomination in the Age-Friendly Environment category at the upcoming National Age-Friendly Recognition & Achievement Awards. The project, which has transformed outdoor spaces and community life in the town, will be honoured at the national ceremony in Galway this October.
Have you ever thought about becoming a Board Member or Trustee but weren’t sure what it involved? The Louth Volunteer Centre is inviting local people to step up and make a real difference in their communities through its flagship programme “Empowering You, Empowering Our Community” – now entering its fifth year.
With over 700 voluntary groups across the county, Louth may be small in size but is renowned for its strong sense of community spirit. Behind the scenes of countless projects, festivals, and good causes are board members and trustees – the often-unsung heroes who provide leadership, governance, and direction.
Yet, despite the vital role they play, many organisations struggle to recruit new board members. A national study in 2023 revealed that 4 in 10 Irish charities face challenges in attracting trustees, with many potential volunteers unsure of what the role entails.
The Louth Volunteer Centre aims to close this gap by equipping participants with the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to succeed. The upcoming programme, starting on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, will be delivered online over four evenings, making it accessible even for those with busy schedules.
Programme Overview:
- Week 1 (Oct 1): Understanding the Landscape & Governance Essentials – explore the voluntary sector in Louth and learn what it means to be a trustee.
- Week 2 (Oct 8): Good Governance & Compliance – insights into the Charities Governance Code, principles of accountability, and real-life case studies.
- Week 3 (Oct 15): Strategic Thinking & Effective Communication – how boards shape organisations’ futures and the importance of sound decision-making.
- Week 4 (Oct 22): People, Inclusion & Finding Your Fit – supporting volunteers, promoting inclusion, and creating a personal trustee action plan.
Past participants have praised the programme for its practical approach, describing it as “relatable, comprehensive, and inspiring.” Many graduates have since gone on to take up leadership roles in community and voluntary groups both within Louth and further afield.
Graduates will also be invited to attend “Lead with Purpose: Louth Trustee Celebration & Showcase” in November – an evening event featuring networking opportunities, a panel discussion, and trustee role showcases.
Catherine from the Louth Volunteer Centre said:
“Being a trustee is about more than attending meetings – it’s about sharing your skills to strengthen the community. This programme helps people realise how much they can contribute, no matter their background or experience.”
The Centre is now seeking new applicants, with places expected to fill quickly.
For more details or to register, email info@volunteerlouth.ie or visit www.volunteerlouth.ie.
📍 Contact Louth Volunteer Centre
- Drogheda: Bolton Street | ☎ 041 9809008
- Dundalk: County Hall, Alphonsus Rd. | ☎ 042 9392934
- Ardee: Ardee Library (by appointment) | ☎ 086 022 6577