Foróige volunteers praised for efforts during pandemic

Foróige volunteers from all over Ireland came together in the Tullamore Court Hotel last weekend, for Foróige’s annual volunteer conference.

Among volunteers in attendance at the conference were Niamh Maher, (Tallaght), Valerie Scully (Tallaght), Adunola Olugboun (Tallaght), Debby McAuley (Tallaght), James Dempsey (Tallaght), Kevin Dignam, (Templeogue), Anthony Clinton, (Tallaght) and Andy Leeson (Tallaght).

Minister Roderic O’Gorman was in attendance and spoke to volunteers, praising their continued efforts throughout the pandemic: “Foróige volunteers have helped create communities that are vital to our society. The value of the contributions that are made by these volunteers cannot be overstated.

“Not only does volunteerism positively impact our communities but it can provide people with a sense of purpose, improving their own wellbeing, enhancing their empathy and allowing them to connect with young people in their communities. Foróige has to be commended for the innovative approach in involving young people in the decisions that impact their lives.”

This was the 50th annual Foróige Volunteers Conference, with 120 delegates from 16 counties enjoying a wide variety of guest speakers, group discussions and social events aimed at exchanging ideas to continue Foróige volunteers’ impactful work throughout Ireland.

Dr David Coleman, clinical psychologist, broadcaster and author was the keynote speaker at the conference and gave his insights into how to communicate with and help teenagers tackle the problems they’re facing in their lives.