Laois spotlight on wellbeing, volunteering and community at Ógra Live Well to showcase

Laois Volunteer Centre, in collaboration with Mountmellick Community School and Laois County Council’s Laois Connects initiative, is proud to announce the return of the Ógra Live Well Expo.

Over 40 community, voluntary and charitable organisations will be in attendance, offering students the opportunity to learn about support and services available in their local area. The Expo aims to highlight themes of positive mental health, volunteerism, and sustainability, showcasing the important role young people can play in building strong, healthy and resilient communities.

The organisers say this year’s event on November 12 promises a dynamic and engaging programme. Attendees will hear from guest speakers representing the mental health, sporting, and arts sectors. These include renowned psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy and award-winning bereaved children and victims' rights campaigner, Sarah Corbett – Lynch, who is one of the youngest authors in Irish history.

There will be various panel discussions aimed at different age groups from schools and communities.

Midlands 103 will broadcast from the Mountmellick event from 12 – 3pm with great prizes on offer through various competitions, all organised by executive committee members, Emma Cashin and Martina Harding. Midlands 103 will also interview exhibitors and participants on air.

Throughout the day, students will also enjoy Zumba, choirs, dancing classes, arts / crafts, aerobics demonstrations, face painting, live music, carnival games, competitions, a health food area and more.

Alongside stands and speakers, activities include panel discussions, a public speaking competition, DJ sets, choir performances, raffles, and mini company showcases. All exhibitors will be provided with a complimentary lunch courtesy of Nourish Catering.

Event organiser, Deputy Principal Frances Kerry–La Rosa spoke about its importance. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Ogra Live Well Expo at Mountmellick Community School in 2024 were Sean Molloy, Dan Culleton and James Daly helping out. Photo: Michael Scully

“There appears to have been an alarming increase in mental health problems among adolescents and young people in recent years, influenced by social media, global crises, isolation and loss.

“Our young people are the next generation. We need to equip them with life skills, resilience, and awareness of where to seek support. The Ógra Live Well Expo highlights the abundance of excellent supports available to them,” she said.

Caitriona Ryan, Manager of Laois Volunteer Centre, emphasised the role volunteering plays in positive youth development.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for charities and community organisations to engage with young people and hopefully inspire the next generation of volunteers. Volunteering benefits both the community and the individual, helping young people gain confidence, skills, experience and a greater sense of belonging,” she said.

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Tom Curran, Age Friendly Coordinator with Laois County Council, welcomed the continuation of the initiative.

“We see the benefits of bringing services and supports available together and creating these in-person awareness events to showcase what is available to young and old in Laois. The Ogra Live Well does that and acts as a one stop shop for all schools and youth in Laois to come in and meet other students, all the while availing of all the information that is there on the day.

"Well done to the organisers of the event…all credit goes to Mountmellick CS and Laois Volunteer Centre for putting it together,” he said.

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Over 1,200 students attended last year’s Expo, and this year’s event is expected to be even bigger.

The event takes place on Wednesday, November 12, from 10am to 3pm at Mountmellick CS.

To book stand and all other enquiries, contact Frances Kerry – La Rosa at frances.kerry@mountmellickcs.ie by phone at 087 9161924 or Caitriona Ryan info@volunteerlaois.ie or 087 249 9659.