Foxford Alzheimer's Community Trust takes top honours at Pride of Place awards
Hosted by former RTÉ broadcaster Joe Duffy at the Convention Centre Dublin, this year's ceremony brought together more than 400 community groups from across Ireland.
Foxford is celebrating a major national achievement after Foxford Alzheimer’s Community Trust (FACT) was named the winner of the Age Friendly Communities Category at the prestigious IPB Pride of Place Awards in Dublin on Saturday night, October 24.
The Mayo organisation came out on top against strong competition from communities across Ireland, earning national recognition for its outstanding work supporting people living with dementia and their families.
There was further success for Mayo on the night, with Ballina Autism Friendly Town (BAFT) securing an impressive runner-up position in the Inclusive Communities Category. Clogher Environmental Group CLG also represented the county, receiving recognition for its contribution to community development and environmental sustainability.
The annual IPB Pride of Place Awards, organised by Co-operation Ireland in partnership with local authorities across the island, celebrate the dedication and achievements of community groups working to improve quality of life and create more inclusive places to live.
Hosted by former RTÉ broadcaster Joe Duffy at the Convention Centre Dublin, this year's ceremony brought together more than 400 community groups from across Ireland. The event also marked 100 years of title sponsor IPB Insurance.
Mayo County Council had nominated FACT, BAFT and Clogher Environmental Group CLG for the competition earlier this year. Following their shortlisting, judges visited each community in July to see first-hand the initiatives and projects being delivered by local volunteers and community leaders.
Congratulating FACT on its success, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr John Caulfield, said he was delighted to see the organisation receive such prestigious national recognition.
He said FACT had created an exceptional community resource for people living with dementia and their families, providing a welcoming, supportive and non-clinical environment where people can socialise, take part in activities and maintain strong connections with their community.
He also highlighted the reassurance and support the organisation provides to families, knowing their loved ones have access to excellent care and assistance.
Cllr Caulfield also praised Ballina Autism Friendly Town for its runner-up achievement, acknowledging its ongoing commitment to making Ballina a more accessible and inclusive place for autistic people and their families.
He paid tribute to Clogher Environmental Group CLG, saying that while the group did not receive an award on the night, its dedication, vision and community spirit deserved recognition.
Deirdre Finnerty, Head of Community Engagement with Mayo County Council, also welcomed the achievements of the three Mayo groups.
She said it was fantastic to see FACT receive a national award and BAFT achieve such high praise, while acknowledging Clogher Environmental Group CLG for representing Mayo so positively on the national stage.
Ms Finnerty said community groups and volunteers throughout Mayo continued to make an extraordinary contribution to their local areas, with their commitment and enthusiasm helping make the county a great place to live, work, visit and invest.
The judges' citation for FACT highlighted the organisation's commitment to inclusion and community wellbeing, praising its social events, creative programmes and outreach initiatives.
“FACT promotes community wellbeing through social events, creative programmes and outreach initiatives, with an approach that values accessibility, respect, inclusion and age-friendly participation.
“Fabulous Foxford. Congratulations on your amazing win.”