Community Centre is starting to move in right direction
SINCE they held an AGM in September 2021, the newly elected board continues to work together to ensure community led management of Neilstown Community Centre.
The board say they have achieved a lot since 2021, including the establishment of a legal structure (Neilstown Community Centre CLG), successfully applied for funding to help meet running costs, ensured the centre remains financially viable, and ensured full insurance coverage.
The Board have also ensured accounts are audited and CRO requirements are met, they have maintained relations with South Dublin County Council, conduct monthly board meetings, and have developed a strategic plan for the centre.
After a very long lockdown and closure, in March 2022 CE staff were permitted to return to work, and steadily, they have seen a return of groups using the centre.
Some activities currently taking place in the centre are speech and language services, the local youth service using the hall, local business DTop Fitness uses the centre a number of times a week, majorettes using the hall almost every day throughout the summer 2022, whom the Board hope to see back this summer, and intermittent bookings from local organisations.
The board was concerned that without a senior employee in the centre, it was difficult to ensure the centre reached its full potential.
“Eventually, with great excitement, we are able to announce that SDCC has awarded a grant to employ a worker,” said the Board.
“While SDCC won’t approve the appointment of a manager, it was agreed to fund the post of a coordinator. This is a senior position to provide consistent and daily presence in the centre with overall day-to day responsibility reporting to the Board of management.
“The board are very grateful to SDCC for this and other funding provided. This role will ensure successful implementation of the centres aims and objectives. The coordinator will assist in developing a programme of activities and events to meet the needs of our diverse community.
The position is now advertised and we are hopeful to find an energetic and skilled individual to ensure Neilstown will have a vibrant and lively community centre with lots of activity.”
The Board are in the process of planning an AGM for 2023, the first as a Company Limited by Guarantee.
“We hope to have the AGM in July and will be circulating the date and information soon. We are interested in hearing from members of the community who might be interested in putting themselves forward for the board.”
