Arts, Culture and Heritage nominations sought as deadline looms for Laois Community & Voluntary Awards

Laois County Council is delighted to announce that the Arts Culture and Heritage Award is open for nominations as part of the Community and Voluntary Awards. This award recognises and honours the remarkable hard work and dedication seen in the Communities of Laois.

“In Laois our arts, culture and heritage is what identifies us as a people and a place. Engaging in the arts, heritage and culture enhances our pride and wellbeing in ourselves and our community.

“An added benefit is that it can be closely aligned to our tourism offering, attracting visitors to experience our distinct arts, heritage, architecture, biodiversity, and folklore.

Many individuals and groups enjoy volunteering and participating in the arts, culture and heritage in our county. They derive pleasure and enjoyment from their work and their actions have the added benefit of enhancing the lives of others and making the place more attractive and enjoyable for all.

Nominating someone in this category ensures that community groups or individuals, organisations or clubs, that promote the Arts, Culture and Heritage shows our appreciation for what they do and encourages them to continue in the work they undertake," said Muireann Ní Chonaill, Arts Officer and Thomas Carolan, Heritage Officer.

"Here in Laois, we wish to recognise and reward individuals or communities who use the arts, heritage and culture to enhance their community. Through these awards we want to show our appreciation for the great work these individuals and groups do, and acknowledge their positive contribution not only to their local communities but to Laois as a county.

"Laois County Council invites you to take a few minutes to look at who is working voluntarily in the arts, heritage and culture and consider nominating them, tell them their work is recognised, appreciated, and valued and so highlight the significance of their community engagement."

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.