Louth Volunteers To Be Celebrated at National Awards Ceremony
By ArdeePost Reporter
Outstanding Louth Volunteers to Be Honoured at National Awards Ceremony
Two exceptional Louth volunteers, Finola Dunne and Sarah Humphries of the Irish Girl Guides (Clogherhead Unit), have been shortlisted for the 18th Annual Volunteer Ireland Awards, shining a national spotlight on the powerful impact of volunteering in the county.
Their nomination places them among 33 shortlisted volunteers from across Ireland, selected from more than 550 nominations covering every corner of society—from sport and education to environmental protection and animal welfare. The finalists, aged between 15 and 87, represent the heart of Irish community spirit.
A national awards ceremony will take place in December at the Carlton Hotel, Blanchardstown, where nominees will be formally recognised before the 2025 Volunteer of the Year is announced.
Louth’s Nominees: Inspiring Leaders in Youth Volunteering
Shortlisted in the Children & Youth category, Finola and Sarah have made a profound contribution to the Irish Girl Guides in Clogherhead, where they volunteer weekly with members aged 4 to 18.
Their work spans all age groups:
- Ladybirds (4–7 years) discovering independence and confidence
- Brownies (7–10 years) building teamwork and courage
- Guides and Senior Branch (10–18 years) developing leadership, resilience, and life skills
Every week, Finola and Sarah create a safe, joyful, and empowering space where girls can learn, grow, and form lifelong friendships. Their nominator praised the lasting effect of their commitment:
“The impact of Finola and Sarah’s volunteering is everywhere – in the smiles and confidence of the girls in Clogherhead, in the strength of the local Leaders’ group, in the success of regional events, and in the wider Guiding community. Their commitment has changed lives, inspired future Leaders, and built a community where girls and women can truly thrive.”
A major milestone this year was the pair leading the Clogherhead Guides on an international trip to London—a first for the group. The trip created unforgettable memories and broadened horizons for every young person who took part.
Louth Volunteer Centre Praises Local Heroes
Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre, said volunteers like Finola and Sarah highlight the strength and resilience found within local communities:
“It’s volunteers like Finola and Sarah that strengthen our communities at a time of increasing division and distrust. Volunteers show up day in and day out to support those who need it most. They bring people together, show compassion, and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.”
She added that the awards not only honour nominees but also celebrate every volunteer who gives their time to make Louth—and Ireland—a better place.
National Recognition for a National Effort
The Volunteer Ireland Awards are supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, the Department of the Gaeltacht, and award partner Healthy Ireland.
Minister of State Jerry Buttimer T.D. praised the spirit behind the awards:
“These annual awards acknowledge the commitment and dedication of so many people who give freely of their time, skills, and talents for the benefit of others… The gift given by volunteers is priceless.”
Minister of State Jennifer Murnane O’Connor T.D. added:
“Volunteers are the backbone of every community in Ireland. It is a joy to recognise those who give their time and skills for the benefit of others.”
Awards Ceremony – December 6th, 2025
The 18th Annual Volunteer Ireland Awards will take place on Saturday, 6th December at the Carlton Hotel, Blanchardstown.
Shortlisted nominees will receive certificates before the winners in each of the 11 categories are announced, culminating in the reveal of Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year 2025.
Photographs accompanying this announcement are available for publication.
Further Information & Contacts For Louth Volunteer Centre
Media Contact:
Kathleen Cawley – Communications & Events Officer
📧 kathleen@volunteer.ie | 📞 089 606 6657
Louth Volunteer Centre:
- Drogheda: Bolton Street, A92 DKR0 | 041 980 9008
- Dundalk: County Hall, Alphonsus Rd (by appointment) | 042 939 2934 / 086 043 1379
- Ardee: Ardee Library (Thurs, 10am–2pm) | 086 022 6577 📧 info@volunteerlouth.ie 🌐 www.volunteerlouth.ie
Full shortlist available at: volunteer.ie/shortlists future. The longer this drags on, the harder it becomes for local businesses and residents to thrive.”