Women’s Shed celebrates one year in Park Community Centre

ALMOST 30 women recently attended a celebration in the Park Community Centre in Ballycragh, marking one year since the centre’s popular Women’s Shed was founded.

The group started out with eight members at its first meeting, but over the last 12 months the Women’s Shed has grown to a membership of 50.

The members engage in a number of activities including decoupage, stone painting, bingo, knitting, flower-arranging, skin and nail care, and health and fitness. Explaining what the one-year celebration of the Women’s Shed was like, chairwoman Eileen White told The Echo: “There was the usual joyful and happy atmosphere.

“The women gathered for chats and cuppas and a special cake marking this occasion.

“We heard feedback from some of our women of the difference the Shed had made to their lives.

“They spoke of friendships and community, inclusivity, chats, learning new skills, and laughter, while one member stated it’s ‘a reason for getting yourself ready and out of the house and meeting people’.”

Bernie, Kay, Niamh and Anne

She added: “Our Shed is a non-profit community group where women come together socially.

“It is our hope that they experience a sense of community, empowerment, and support.

“Our vision is to create a welcoming space for women of all ages and backgrounds to come together, share their skills, and learn from one another.”

The volunteer committee of the Women’s Shed is Eileen White, Siobhan Dwyer, Liz D’Arcy, Bernie Bushe, Carol McDonnell and Zita Markey.

The group is supported by grants from South Dublin County Council, and they also thanked the Park Community Centre and Mayor Alan Edge and local councillors for their support.

Barbara, Trish, Claire and Andrea

“Most importantly, this Women’s Shed would not be the success it is without the support of the women who attend and take part,” added Ms White.

“We have seen women take on new challenges, learn new skills, build new friendships and support each other through life’s ups and downs.

“Members cannot believe that the first year has gone so fast, there is much more we can accomplish together, and we look forward to many more years.

Tina, Marie and Karen in The Park

“We are always open to new members.”

The Women’s Shed meets at the Park Community Centre every Tuesday morning from 10am to 12 midday, and further information is available on the Women’s Shed at the Park Facebook page.

For full access to all content on Echo.ie and to support the continuation of local news and local journalism in your community subscribe HERE.

Thanks for your ongoing support.