Laois volunteer heroes to be recognised at annual awards

Laois County Council, in partnership with Laois Public Participation Network and Corporate Sponsor People First Credit Union, will honour the heroes of local communities across County Laois at the 16th Annual Gala Community and Voluntary Awards which takes place on Friday, November 21, at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise.

The Awards are hosted to recognise the tremendous contribution made by community and voluntary groups to life in County Laois. All nominees will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions, both within and beyond their local communities. Their dedication and generosity in giving their time have helped strengthen clubs, deliver successful events, and drive impactful fundraising efforts that make a real difference. 

Cllr Barry Walsh, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council said:“I am very much looking forward to this year’s Community and Voluntary Awards, a highlight of the Laois calendar. This special evening, which will see a record 300 attendees this year, shines a spotlight on the incredible commitment and generosity of volunteers who make a real difference across our county.” 
These awards have been judged by PPN Representatives from around Ireland and the eagerly awaited results will be announced on the night. 

The Master of Ceremonies on the night will be Mr. Justin Treacy, a native of County Laois. Michael Rainey, Chief Executive of Laois County Council said:“The Community and Voluntary Awards celebrate the vital role volunteers play in strengthening our communities. Laois County Council is proud to once again host this event in partnership with Laois PPN and People First Credit Union. Volunteers are the backbone of community organisations across the county, and their dedication makes our society a better place for everyone. These awards are our way of honouring and recognising that outstanding contribution.”

 The Arts, Culture & Heritage Award recognises Clubs/Groups/Organisations who enhance their local areas, by conserving, protecting and promoting the Arts, Culture and Heritage of their local community through collective creative activities. Examples include Drama, Music, Literature, Arts, Festivals, Conservation, and Heritage.

Sponsored by LCC Arts & Heritage Sections  The Sports Award is to recognise and celebrate groups in our local communities from clubs, and community organisations that go above and beyond in their efforts to promote community sport and physical activity opportunities.  This award aims to acknowledge groups or organisations that provide a leading role in their communities to help to improve the quality of life and reduce barriers to participation through physical activity or sports. 

Sponsored by Laois Sports Partnership  The Climate Action Award recognises communities carrying out awareness initiatives and/or actions that make a positive contribution against climate change. Climate actions can encourage your community to improve the impact of their everyday choices, support local communities and foster a sustainable approach to protecting the environment.

Sponsored by LCC Climate Action Section Next up we have Best Kept Residential Estate Award. This award recognises the hard work and dedication shown in Residential Estates throughout Laois. It recognises the great pride people have in their own communities, the value of our biodiversity and continued effort, on behalf of the place they live.

Sponsored by LCC Environment Section The Health and Well Being Award recognises community health and wellbeing groups, i.e., mental health, sexual health, awareness raising and promotion around medical conditions, disorders, and disabilities, increased meaningful daily activities, developing confidence, and providing a sense of purpose and positive self-worth for citizens in the community.

This award acknowledges community groups, organisations and clubs that promote physical and mental health and wellbeing, focusing on prevention and keeping people healthier for longer, including opportunities for social connections. Example: Drama Groups, Youth Activities, Mental Health Support Groups, Healthy Eating Programmes, Sexual health, Social Network groups, Scouts, and people with differing abilities.

Sponsored by Laois Local Community Development Committee (LCDC)  The Social Inclusion Award recognises groups/organisations that actively work in a supportive role in their communities and whose aim is to minimise social exclusion and/or help to improve the quality of life for socially excluded groups.  Examples include Working with the elderly, People with Disabilities, Ethnic Minority, Travelling Community, Young people in transition, LGBTI+ and the Homeless.

Sponsored by Laois Partnership Company  The Junior Volunteer of the Year Award recognises the outstanding contribution young people throughout the county, have made to their local Community. Every community has individuals who are boundless in their energy and determination to get things done.  Each group and individual nominated will be presented with a Certificate acknowledging their contribution to the community and voluntary effort in Laois.

One of the most anticipated awards each year goes to an individual, who the judges believe puts in such effort that they can be regarded as an Unsung Hero, for the work they do within their communities.