Staff and Volunteers of Meath Youth Federation (MYF) were thrilled to be selected as the recipient of the “Outstanding Volunteer Programme Award” at Volunteering Ireland’s “Ireland Involved Awards” ceremony this week in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin. The Award recognises MYF’s strong volunteer programmes and our engagement in outstanding work that reflects the ideals and spirit of volunteerism. Youth Club Development Officer Tracie Kinsella accepted the award on behalf of Meath Youth Federation from Ms Elaine Brady CEO Volunteering Ireland. Tracie gave tribute to the immense contribution of our Volunteers who have helped Meath Youth Federation continue to provide an invaluable service to the young people of Co. Meath.
Also at the event was MYF Volunteer Patricia Ryan representing The Next Generation Youth Club, Ballivor who was shortlisted in the Children & Youth category. Patricia was instrumental in setting up Next Generation Youth Club in the Ballivor area of Meath. She saw the need for the young people to be given an opportunity to express themselves in a safe environment with their peers. She exudes confidence and determination and is meticulous in her planning of all youth club matters. Patricia is a mother and has a full time job but this does not stop her doing all she can to help the young teenagers of her local community. She takes her role as secretary very seriously and simply wants the youth club to be the best club possible. She has organised great youth club nights including pizza cooking, murder mystery nights and quiz nights, as well as often organising fundraising events with the young people to make them aware of the needs of other people in their community. She encourages other youth clubs to take part in events organised by the national office and welcomes inter-club activities within the county. Patricia is also a great time manager but knows her limitations and shows other volunteers how to pace themselves in order to sustain the fun, enthusiasm, ideas and friendships needed to keep the youth club going into the future. She glows with pride when speaking about her youth club and all the young people involved. She actively promotes Meath Youth Federation with the work she does and successfully promotes the young people of Ballivor in a very positive way.

“Last year our youth club became the most active and successful community venture in our area for youth. Without the dedicated, committed, enthusiastic and supportive group of volunteers this would not have evolved. We concentrated on the teenagers whose need was greatest and have been greatly rewarded with 60 tremendous members who continue to give and appreciate our efforts. I am one of many and am extremely proud of what we have all achieved, together.” – Patricia