A week long celebration of volunteering is set to get underway next week as National Volunteering Week 2022 was launched.
National Volunteering Week, from May 16 to 22, takes place during the third week of May every year and is dedicated to showcasing the contribution of volunteers and their impact on our communities.
Laois Volunteer Centre will be carrying out two information/recruitment drives during the week with particular focus on volunteer recruitment for Laois Africa Day.
Volunteers recruited will be given the opportunity to join the new Community Volunteers Programme which will be rolled out later this year.
In addition, Laois Volunteer Centre has recorded a short video of interviews with people volunteering in Laois.
Volunteers from The Jack and Jill Shop and Laois Integration Network were interviewed about their volunteering experience, why they volunteer and what the benefits are – there are personal as well as altruistic benefits.
This year’s theme is Celebrate Volunteers, with a specific focus each day on areas including the environment and health & wellbeing.
Laois Volunteer Centre Manager, Caitriona Ryan said: “It’s been a tough few years for us all and it’s great to see volunteers across the country get back to doing what they love.
“From sports clubs to community clean ups, this week is dedicated to all those people who take time to give back and make our communities a better place.
“So many people had to put their volunteering on hold during the pandemic and as the country continues to reopen, we want to celebrate volunteers for all that they do.”
National Volunteering Week will be anchored by a digital campaign sharing personal volunteer stories and encouraging people across the country to think about the incredible impact that volunteers have on our communities.
Minister of State for Public Health and Wellbeing, Frank Feighan commented: “Healthy Ireland are again supporting National Volunteering Week.
“Volunteering plays a critical role in supporting healthy, resilient communities, a reality that became even more clear during the pandemic.
“I want to thank volunteers nationwide for their dedication and commitment to supporting those most in need.
“It’s also a good time to take stock and remember that volunteers must focus on their own health and wellbeing while giving so much to others.”
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