LAOIS REVIEW 2022: Liz Clear is 'Unsung Hero for 2022

The Unsung Hero Award is the highlight of the Laois Community and Voluntary Awards which took place in October.

The accolade is awarded for significant contribution made by an individual to life in their own local community and beyond.
A total of 12 people living in Laois were nominated for the Unsung Hero Award in 2022.

They are all recognised as people who selflessly and quietly, give of their time and dedication, expecting nothing in return except the reward of improvement of life in their community. MC Justin Treacy paid tribute to all the nominees at the Awards Ceremony at the Midlands Park Hotel on Friday, October 28.
“I think you’ll agree that they are all heroes in their own right,” he said.

Laois Offaly TD and Minister of State at the Department of Finance Seán Fleming presented the award to the 2022 winner Liz Clear from Mountmellick who is the Chairperson of the Laochra Laois special Olympics Club.
The judges in this category paid tribute.

“Described as a ‘superhero’ in the community, this person has for years played a fundamental role in their local and wider community. They go above and beyond, are selfless and a true inspiration.
“They are genuinely unaware of the huge positive impact they have and continue to make.
“They are extremely committed to supporting those who require additional support, because they know only too well from their own experience what the barriers are.

“ They have opened up so many opportunities for children and families,” concluded the citation.
Her nominators explained why Liz should be the Unsung Hero for 2022.

“Liz is a mother of a beautiful young lady with disabilities, she also cares for her sick mother.
“No matter how difficult her day has been Liz comes to club twice a week with a smile on her face. She encourages all our athletes and volunteers to give their best.

“She runs the club, the paperwork, attends meeting regionally and nationally.
“She collects athletes to make sure they can attend and she supports parents when they need a lift.
“She is truly an amazing women. We feel Liz deserves to be recognised for all her work she does for people with intellectual disabilities and their families,” said the nominees.

Liz Clear spoke to the Leinster Express on the night. “I’m delighted but shocked. There are so many other people in the group that do great work,” she said.

The Cullenagh native lives in O’Moore’s Forest with her husband Ger and children Kizzie and Oran.
“It is actually recognition for the club. For people to see what we do.

“We have a daughter with special needs, that’s how we got involved,” she said.
The decision to volunteer has been a benefit to Kizzie as well as others she said.

“It’s been a great social outlet for her and a great way for her to get exercise. But there’s a great atmosphere.
“Everybody that comes to is it happy to be there, wants to be there. It’s great for your soul.
“We missed the door closing, we were just doing stuff over Zoom, and do exercises on video and they would record what they were doing and send it back to us, to encourage others to stay active.

“To get back together was fantastic,” Liz said.
They meet every Monday in St Mary’s Hall Portlaoise from 6.30 for an hour, doing athletics, floor ball, bowling.
The club has over 40 members ranging in age from 8 to 57, and 11 volunteers.
“We would welcome more, especially coaches,” Liz said.

Bridget Reidy Dundon who won the youth award, is on of their volunteers as her son Kyle is a member.
“It’s a double award for us really,” Liz said.