Local groups urged to nominate for Social Inclusion category in Laois Community & Voluntary Awards

Local groups that strive to help everyone in Laois to participate fully in Laois life are being urged to take advantage of the extension of the nomination deadline for the Social Inclusion category in the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards.

In welcoming nominations, the Laois County Council say the category recognises the outstanding efforts of groups and organizations actively involved in their communities. They say the Social Inclusion Award also acknowledges those who strive to minimise social exclusion and enhance the quality of life for socially marginalised groups.

As communities grow and evolve, Laois County Council says it is crucial to foster an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and embraced.

The Social Inclusion Award also aims to shine a light on those who tirelessly work to achieve these goals. Examples of the work that can be recognised under this category include initiatives centered around the elderly, people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, the Traveller community, young people in transition, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the homeless.

Social inclusion plays a pivotal role in the advancement and well-being of society. When individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences come together, opportunities for personal growth, understanding, and positive change significantly increase. Bringing people together through compassion, support, and empathy strengthens communities, fostering mutual respect and acceptance.

By recognizing the extraordinary efforts of those working on the front lines, the Council says the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards hope to inspire and encourage others to join the movement towards social inclusion. It is through these collective efforts that barriers are broken down, enabling everyone to access the opportunities and resources they need to flourish.

Etaoin Walsh, Social Inclusion Manager, Laois Partnership Company. "Laois Partnership Company is honoured to support the Community and Voluntary Awards once again. We are excited to hear from all the projects and individuals working with communities in Co Laois. The Social Inclusion category is especially important for us as this is one of the main remits of our organisation.

"We couldn’t do our work without the collaborations with many amazing community groups that are also tirelessly working to make sure that no one in society is left behind. We encourage these groups to come forward and have their hard work recognized," said the Manager.

The Laois Community and Voluntary Awards invite individuals, groups, and organizations to nominate themselves or others who exemplify exceptional work in the social inclusion category.

The deadline for submissions has been extended by popular demand, with nominations now being accepted until 4pm on August 4th.

HOW TO NOMINATE 

There are four ways to nominate by 4pm on August 4.

1. To submit a nomination, complete the online forms at www.laois.ie, or on https://consult.laois.ie

2. Log onto the Consultation Portal https://consult.laois.ie

3. Download nomination form from www.laois.ie/departments/community/community-voluntary-
awards-2023/and email completed form to : awards@laoiscoco.ie or post hardcopy to Community Section, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise

4: Hardcopy nomination forms are available from the Community Section, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise- tel no. 057 86 64236.

Laois County Council is partnered in the Awards by Laois PPN with sponsors by People First Credit Union, Laois Volunteer Centre, Laois Partnership. The Leinster Express is Media Partner.

The categories for 2023 are: Arts, Culture & Heritage; Sports; Best Kept Residential Area; Social Inclusion; Health and Well Being; Climate change; Unsung Hero; Junior Volunteer of the Year.