Making a difference – Volunteer Ambassador – Carolyn Akintola
VOLUNTEERING has always been a key component of life in South Dublin County, a trait of local life that was highlighted during National Volunteer Week.
One local volunteer celebrated was Carolyn Akintola from Tallaght, here’s her story…
From Tallaght, Carolyn is a disability awareness advocate who has been volunteering since she was 12 years old.
Carolyn, who spent 15 years as a carer for her mother, volunteers with the South Dublin County Volunteer Corps, supporting local events and festivals such as Tallafest.
Carolyn Akintola
She is a member of the South Dublin County Council Disability Advisory Consultancy Panel and previously volunteered with St Vincent De Paul for 25 years.
Carolyn also volunteers as an inquest juror which sees her sitting on juries for inquest inquiries in Bray and the Coroner’s Court in Dublin a number of times a year.
When asked what makes her volunteer, Carolyn’s answer was simple.
“If we want to live in a good society, we have to take part and make a contribution,” Carolyn said.
“I’ve gained a lot from society as have many others, so I feel it’s important to give that back.”
Carolyn encourages other people to volunteer, and issues this advice to anyone who has not volunteered before: “You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
“Just try it, and if you don’t like it you can try something else.
“Don’t give up at the first hurdle, there are so many different things you can do – you’ll find something that suits you.”
For further information on local volunteering opportunities visit the South Dublin Volunteer Centre HERE.
*Thanks to the National Volunteering Centre for sharing Carolyn’s story
