National Volunteering Week 2026
National Volunteering Week is a week-long celebration of volunteering, from the 18th to the 24th of May 2026. Carlow Volunteer Centre, in concert with Volunteer Ireland and the network of Volunteer Centres, uses National Volunteering Week to amplify the incredible stories of volunteering in our communities through social and traditional media. It’s a week full of events, both online and in person, with everything from coffee mornings to training to mindfulness seminars on offer.
Monday 18th May
Volunteer Coffee Morning at the Carlow Volunteer Centre, 10:30am – 12:30pm
An opportunity for our generous volunteers to call into our office for some tea and biscuits, and have a chat with our staff and each other about volunteering, and life in general. Drop-ins are welcome, but you can also RSVP by emailing Sinead@volunteercarlow.ie or Natasha@volunteercarlow.ie so we have enough snacks for everyone.
Tuesday 19th May
Visiting a Local Group
Our team will be visiting with one of our wonderful local groups, to celebrate the great work they do in and for the community.
Wednesday 20th May
“Managing Difficult Volunteer Situations” Online Lunchtime Training, 1pm-2pm
Online training for our Volunteer Involving Organisations to help them handle potential difficult situations that occur when working with volunteers.
Organisations interested in receiving the training can register here.
Community Volunteers Training for Carlow Arts Festival, 5:30pm
In-person training for our Community Volunteers who will be volunteering with Carlow Arts Festival.
Volunteers interested in helping with Carlow Arts Festival can learn more here.
Thursday 21st May
Garda Vetting Training for Organisation, Online Lunchtime Training, 1pm-2pm
Training by our team to help affiliate Organisations successfully complete any Garda Vetting that may be needed for their volunteers or staff.
Organisations interested in registering as an affiliate can contact Natasha@volunteercarlow.ie, and any existing affiliates can register interest in the training here.
Friday 22nd May
“Mindfulness with Mary” for Volunteer Involving Organisations at An Gairdín Beo, 12:30pm-2pm
Carlow Volunteer Centre recognise the invaluable work staff & volunteers do in organisations. This is an opportunity to take a moment to look after yourself.
Mary Fleming is a fully qualified and experienced tutor. Mary will guide participants to connect with feelings and manage stress to help navigate life’s difficulties with confidence in the relaxed setting of An Gairdín Beo. Lunch will also be provided.
Organisations interested in attending can register here.