20 Year Anniversary Event – A Night of Recognition and Celebration

Carlow Volunteer Centre hosted its Annual Volunteer Recognition Event at the Seven Oaks Hotel on September 25th, celebrating the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the community. This year’s event was particularly special, as it marked the Centre’s 20th anniversary—a milestone highlighting two decades of dedication to supporting and empowering volunteers in Carlow.

 

Over 180 volunteers and representatives from Volunteer-Involving Organisations attended the celebration, reflecting the strong spirit of volunteerism that thrives within the county. Also in attendance were Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, Minister Jerry Buttimer; Minister of State at the Department of Health, Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor; TD Catherine Callaghan; and local councillors, all showing their support for the vital role volunteers play in building a stronger, more connected community.

The celebration was officially opened by the Manager of Carlow Volunteer Centre, Helen, who warmly thanked the volunteers, Volunteer-Involving Organisations, community groups, and partners for their ongoing support and encouragement of volunteering across the county. She went on to reflect on the Centre’s impact over the past 20 years: more than 3,000 volunteers have registered with the Centre and have been placed into nearly 5,000 volunteer roles, collectively giving over 120,000 hours of their time to help others.

“Think about that for a moment,” she said. “120,000 hours of support, encouragement, and care. That’s thousands of conversations and countless acts of kindness. Thank you.”

Helen also spoke about the Centre’s inclusive approach, noting that the personal connections made through Carlow Volunteer Centre foster integration, diversity, and inclusion, making volunteering a welcoming and rewarding experience for everyone.

“We connect people across cultures, generations, and backgrounds—creating opportunities to participate, to share, and to belong. Together, we are building a stronger, more compassionate community where every person feels valued.”

Martha Jane Duggan, Chairperson of the Board spoke about “Twenty years is an incredible milestone, and it would not have been possible without the dedication of staff, board members, community partners, and of course, the volunteers themselves. To each of you, past and present, who has played a role in this journey – we salute you.

She stated that “It is important to acknowledge, with deep appreciation, two individuals who were among the founding group that established Carlow Volunteer Centre 20 years ago and who continue to serve with distinction on the Board today. Their longstanding commitment and leadership have been central to the Centre’s development and enduring success.”

She also recognised the extraordinary contributions of Frank Comerford and Fiona Dunne. On behalf of Carlow Volunteer Centre, and indeed on behalf of our entire community, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your vision, your leadership, and your enduring legacy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other speakers on the evening included Minister Jerry Buttimer, Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, Paula O’Brien (Director of Services with Carlow County Council), and Martha Jane Duggan,Chairperson of Carlow Volunteer Centre. Each expressed their deep appreciation for the vital role volunteers play in enriching the lives of individuals and strengthening the fabric of the community.

A special video message from Cynthia Ní Mhurchú was also played on the evening, adding a warm and personal tribute to the volunteers and the Centre’s 20-year journey. Her words reflected the deep pride felt across the county for the selfless contributions made by so many over the years.”