Laois Volunteer Centre to host World Café event and want to hear from you
Laois community invited to have their say in how the Laois Volunteer Centre can advance volunteering across the county
Voluntary groups, volunteers and organisations with a stake in volunteering across Laois are invited to have their say in how the Laois Volunteer Centre can advance volunteering across the county.
Funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Laois Volunteer Centre (VC) is a registered charity that has operated since 2021.
Since then, it has supported over 250 not-for-profit organisations by referring volunteers to them, providing training, a Garda Vetting service and other practical supports.
It supports a multitude of individuals in volunteering so that they share their skills, talents and make a difference in their communities.
Now, as part of its further development, it is developing a new strategic plan to guide its mission of being a one-stop-shop for volunteering in Laois.
Caitriona Ryan, Manager, Laois VC, outlined how local people can have input at an upcoming World Café style event.
“We have worked hard over the last five years to grow our organisation, raise awareness of our services and support the not-for-profit sector in Laois. Now, we want to ensure that we continue to provide a valuable service by seeking the views of volunteers and people interested in volunteering.
“With that in mind, we are holding a stakeholder engagement workshop on November 11 th from 7pm - 9pm in The Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise. We want people interested in community and volunteering to attend. We need their input to ensure that the work we do addresses volunteering needs for the next three years.
“The workshop will provide opportunities for ideas, thoughts and feedback to be shared. In addition, there will be time for networking and catching up with other volunteers and not-for-profit organisations over a sandwich and a cuppa,” said Ms Ryan.
Conor Ganly, Laois VC Chairperson, encouraged local groups and people to come along.
“We believe Laois Volunteer Centre has made a big positive impact in the county since being set up as part of a Government initiative to support the volunteer ethos across Ireland.
“Now we want to keep up the good work by having a roadmap that is informed by the people we aim to serve - the people and organisations of Laois. We look forward to seeing lots of people at the workshop this month,” he said.
The workshop will be overseen by independent strategy consultant Fiona Barry. While this workshop is open to all those interested in volunteering, booking is essential and can be done through https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/2003350301681? Or email [email protected].