Thank You Evening Recognises Community Volunteers

The efforts of those who volunteer their services to help manage community centres throughout the district, were recognised at a ‘Thank You’ evening, hosted by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, at the Kilmorey Arms Hotel, Kilkeel on Friday 15 June.

The evening was organised to acknowledge and demonstrate the Council’s appreciation for all the hard work community volunteers do to help manage Community Centres on behalf of, or in partnership with the Council. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Mark Murnin said, “I want to thank all those that take time away from family and friends to provide this service for the good of their community.  Running a community centre is a very responsible and time consuming role, which these volunteers are fulfilling in around already busy lives.  This civic reception is just one way we can pay tribute to the contribution they make.”

Councillor Murnin continued, “The Council aims to provide and operate high quality community facilities through these partnership opportunities, to ensure the sustainability of community services and also to empower local people to effect change within their own communities.  We want to support our volunteers so that they can do their job effectively.  Over the next 12 months the Council aims to develop a training and development programme for voluntary management committees to help build upon their skills base.”

He concluded, “We are very fortunate that we have residents of all ages who are community spirited and willing to give their time and energy to support the delivery of some of our vital community services.”