A Night of Stories and Inspiration: Celebrating the Power of Volunteering in Louth
Ardee News and Sport – On Thursday, December 5th, the Monasterboice Inn was abuzz with positivity as Louth Volunteer Centre launched a groundbreaking report, The Impact of Volunteering and Future Opportunities for Volunteering in County Louth. The event, held in celebration of International Volunteer Day, brought together volunteers, community leaders, and stakeholders to recognize the transformative power of volunteering and discuss its future potential.
The Impact of Volunteering
The newly unveiled report highlights the profound benefits of volunteering on individuals and communities. According to the 2022 Census, 13% of Louth’s population—nearly 17,900 people—engage in volunteer work, making it a cornerstone of the county’s community spirit.
Key findings from the research include:
• 79% of volunteers reported increased confidence.
• 76% noted improved interpersonal skills.
• 75% of employers value volunteering experience when hiring.
“Volunteering is the heart of community spirit in Louth,” said Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre. “It brings people together, breaks down barriers, and creates opportunities for growth, connection, and inclusion.”
Personal Stories of Transformation
Throughout the evening, attendees heard inspiring stories from volunteers who have found purpose and pride through giving back. One of the standout testimonials came from Janice Doolin, Chairperson of Connect Family Resource Centre. Reflecting on her journey from participant to leader, Janice shared, “Volunteering has given me purpose and pride, and I’ve loved meeting so many different people.”
Another highlight was a panel discussion led by Emma, a Migrant Support Worker at Louth Volunteer Centre, featuring volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including asylum seekers and migrants. Follyvi Simon Folly, a volunteer who arrived in Ireland in 2020, recounted his experience helping at the “Come and Try Athletics Day” for children with disabilities. “Volunteering gave me a sense of belonging and purpose,” he said.
Volunteering as a Tool for Integration
The report underscored the crucial role volunteering plays in supporting integration. In 2023, 42% of new volunteer registrations in Louth came from non-Irish residents—a figure that has risen to 55% in 2024. Volunteers now represent 66 nationalities, helping to foster cultural understanding and create a more inclusive society.
For individuals in Direct Provision, volunteering offers a sense of purpose and a pathway to integration, providing opportunities to engage with local communities, develop skills, and build confidence.
Innovative Volunteer Programmes
Louth Volunteer Centre is leading the way with innovative initiatives, such as the Community Volunteer Programme and the Youth Community Volunteer Programme, the latter involving young participants from schools like De La Salle College Dundalk. Creative projects like Crafting Connections and Blankets of Care were also showcased during the event, alongside displays from St. Joseph’s National School Mell and Cú Chulainn Girl Guides.
As the event came to a close, attendees celebrated the vibrant spirit of volunteering that defines Louth. “This research highlights not only the incredible impact volunteers have but also the immense potential for innovation and expansion in the future,” said Mulligan.
If you’re ready to start your volunteer journey or are an organization in need of volunteers, visit www.volunteerlouth.ie or contact the Louth Volunteer Centre in Drogheda (041 9809008), Dundalk (042 9392934 / 086 0431379), or Ardee (086 0226577).
Volunteering is not just about giving back; it’s about building a better, stronger, and more inclusive community for all