Praxis Care celebrates exceptional Magherafelt volunteers at annual event

In a powerful display of community appreciation, Praxis Care recently honoured its dedicated volunteers at the annual Volunteer Celebration Event held at Belfast Castle in late November 2024. The event, which brought together over 50 attendees, including 23 volunteers, paid tribute to those who generously give their time and efforts to support the charity's mission of empowering individuals to live more independent lives.

Among those recognised were seven exceptional volunteers from the Magherafelt area, whose contributions span up to an impressive 25 years of service.

Praxis Care began as a befriending service and has grown into one of the UK and Ireland’s leading social care providers. Volunteers play a vital role in befriending, service support, and other activities that enrich the lives of those supported by the charity. Praxis Care benefits from the dedication of more than 80 volunteers.

Praxis Care’s Volunteer Manager, Ian Cardwell, expressed: “Praxis Care takes great pride in showing thanks to the dedicated volunteers who help make the charity’s mission a reality. Their selflessness and commitment are vital in supporting those in care, and events like this provide the opportunity to express deep gratitude for their ongoing contributions.”

This year’s celebration featured moving speeches from three volunteers – Ada, Ivor and Andrew - who shared their personal experiences and the profound rewards of volunteering with Praxis Care. Their heartfelt stories highlighted the dual impact of volunteering, enriching the lives of those they support, while offering meaningful personal growth and fulfilment. 

Mr Caldwell reflected: “The stories told by Ada, Ivor and Andrew made me very proud to be Praxis Care’s Volunteer Manager – a great way to end 2024.”

The celebration was attended by Deirdre Carr, Regional Director of Care and Development for Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, who joined the occasion to highlight the importance of volunteer contributions in strengthening the services Praxis Care provides across the region.

This year’s event honoured 12 volunteers with long service awards, recognising their outstanding contributions.

The Magherafelt Befriending Service volunteers honoured were: Roisin Scullion (25 years), Ivon Faulkner (15 years), Margaret Bradley (15 years), Anita McGurk (10 years), Martina Kennedy (10 years), Paddy Henry (10 years) and Patsy Devlin (10 years).