The shortlist has been announced for the 18th Annual Volunteer Ireland Awards, with
Louth being represented this year by two nominees. Those shortlisted will be honoured at a national awards ceremony in Dublin in December, celebrating the commitment and dedication of volunteers across Ireland.
From over 550 nominations, the shortlist consists of 33 nominees across 11 categories, featuring volunteers aged 15 to 87 who embody the remarkable impact of volunteering across all sections of society. The volunteering done by nominees encompasses everything from sport to protecting the environment to animal welfare and showcases the key role volunteers play in supporting our communities.
Louth is proudly represented this year by two outstanding nominees, Finola Dunne & Sarah Humphries of the Irish Girl Guides (Clogherhead Unit), shortlisted in the Children & Youth category.
Finola and Sarah have had a remarkable impact through their volunteering with the Irish Girl Guides, especially in their local Clogherhead Unit. Every week, they create a safe, welcoming space where girls aged 4 to 18 can learn, laugh, and grow together.
Whether it’s Ladybirds learning to share and try new things, Brownies taking steps towards independence, or Senior Branch members preparing for leadership, Finola and Sarah are there guiding, encouraging, and celebrating each girl’s progress.
Their nominator writes: “The impact of Finola and Sarah’s volunteering is everywhere – in the smiles and confidence of the girls in Clogherhead, in the strength of the local Leaders’ group, in the success of regional events, and in the wider Guiding community. Their commitment has changed lives, inspired future Leaders, and built a community where girls and women can truly thrive.”
A first for the group, Sarah and Finola also led the Guides on an international trip to London this year, creating unforgettable memories and widening horizons for the young people they support.
Commenting on the shortlist, Kayleigh Mulligan, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre, said: “It’s volunteers like Finola and Sarah that strengthen our communities in a time of increasing division and distrust. Volunteers show up day in and day out to support those who need it most.
"They bring people together, show compassion, and protect the most vulnerable in our communities. These awards are our way to recognise just some of the incredible people who give their time and energy to make Louth—and Ireland—a better place. We are proud to honour not just those shortlisted, but every volunteer who makes a difference.”
The 2025 Volunteer Ireland Awards are made possible thanks to the support of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and award partner Healthy Ireland.
Minister of State for Rural and Community Development, Charities and Rural Transport, Jerry Buttimer T.D., said: “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate all the nominees for the Volunteer Ireland Awards, which are supported by my Department.
"These annual awards are a great way of acknowledging the commitment and dedication of so many people who give freely of their time, skills, and talents for the benefit of others. The gift given by volunteers is priceless.”
Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor T.D., added: “Volunteers are the backbone of every community in Ireland… I am delighted that through the Volunteer Ireland Awards; we can acknowledge those who give their time and skills for the benefit of others.”
The 18th annual Volunteer Ireland Awards will take place on Saturday, 6th December at the Carlton Hotel, Blanchardstown, Dublin. Shortlisted nominees will receive their certificates before the winners in each category are announced, along with the naming of Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year 2025.
