Local volunteers recognised for the difference they make in their communities
VOLUNTEERS from across Omagh and the surrounding area have been celebrated for the invaluable contribution they make to local communities at a recent special Volunteer Recognition and Recruitment Event held at Omagh Library.
VOLUNTEERS from across Omagh and the surrounding area have been celebrated for the invaluable contribution they make to local communities at a recent special Volunteer Recognition and Recruitment Event held at Omagh Library.
Organised by Omagh Volunteer Centre, the event brought together volunteers, community and voluntary organisations and members of the public to recognise the time, commitment and skills that volunteers give to supporting others and making a difference in their communities.
The event provided an opportunity to say thank you to the many people who give their time to help others, while also highlighting the wide range of volunteering opportunities available locally.
As well as celebrating existing volunteers, the event featured a Volunteer Recruitment Fair, giving local community and voluntary organisations the opportunity to showcase their work and encourage new people to get involved.
The fair was open to people of all ages, including young people aged 16 and over, and provided an opportunity to find out more about the many different ways people can volunteer – whether they are looking to meet new people, develop skills and experience, support a cause they care about or simply give something back to their community.
Martin Cassidy, Manager of Omagh Volunteer Centre, said it was important the community recognised the contribution volunteers made.
“Every day, people give their time, skills and energy to support others. Often this work happens quietly behind the scenes, so events like this are an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the contribution volunteers make.
“Volunteering is not just about what you give, it is also about what you gain. It can provide opportunities to meet new people, build confidence, learn new skills and gain valuable experience, while knowing that you are making a real difference to someone else.
“We were delighted to bring volunteers and local organisations together at Omagh Library and to give people the opportunity to discover the many volunteering opportunities available in our area.
“Our message is simple: if you want to help, there is a place for you in volunteering. Whether you have a few hours to spare, want to gain experience or simply want to make a difference, we would encourage you to get involved.”
Omagh Volunteer Centre supports individuals who want to volunteer and works alongside local volunteer-involving organisations to promote, develop and strengthen volunteering across the area.
The Centre provides information, advice and support to people interested in volunteering, while also helping organisations recruit, support and recognise their volunteers.
The event highlighted the breadth of volunteering opportunities available locally, from supporting older and isolated people and working with children and young people, to community development, fundraising, environmental projects, befriending and many other areas.
The Investing in Community Volunteers Programme is one of 13 programmes detailed in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council PEACEPLUS Local Action Plan. The project is supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
For anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities in the Omagh area, contact Omagh Volunteer Centre on 028 8224 0772 or email [email protected].