COPE Galway thanks volunteers at annual recognition event today

COPE Galway is holding its 4^th Annual Volunteer Recognition Event today at the Salthill Hotel. As part of this week’s National Volunteering Week (14-21 May) the event aims to recognise the invaluable contribution made to COPE Galway services by its ‘tribe’ of over 200 Volunteers.

‘Volunteering Builds Better Communities’ is this year’s national theme.

Lucia Canavan, COPE Galway’s Volunteer Coordinator explains how this is relevant every day across COPE Galway’s services for people experiencing Homelessness, Domestic Violence and for Older People at risk of isolation.

“Our volunteers are of all ages and stages and come from all walks of life.

“What they have in common is the desire to make a difference in their community – and in their own life – by giving their time. They tell us that when they help in this way, they feel engaged and closer to their community. The essential work we do together allows our volunteers to really make a difference.”

COPE Galway CEO, Jacquie Horan says: “It is very important to us that we recognise the invaluable hard work our volunteers do.

“This annual event is always a wonderful opportunity for over 200 volunteers to meet their kindred spirits from across our services in a relaxed setting, and exchange stories about each other’s volunteering experiences.

“Without the time, expertise & commitment our team of volunteers offers our organisation, we simply couldn’t continue to provide our range of supports across all our services around Galway.”

COPE Galway offers multiple volunteering positions across its services in over 30 roles.   From meal delivery drivers, food rescuers, kitchen assistants and cookery tutors, to positions as a befriender or playroom support, a shop assistant or a musician; or helping out at the Day Centre & Lunch Clubs, or with administration – there is lots to choose from.

The local organisation also has people who help out on an occasional basis at fundraising events and on their short term corporate Helping Hands Projects, which offer a helping hand to services to get practical work done, such as painting a client’s home; planting gardens or washing windows.

“What is key,” says Lucia Canavan, “is that your volunteer experience is a good one with us.  We are committed and  continue to strive towards being the “Best in the West” for volunteers in Galway. Please give me a call on 091 778750 if you’d like to discuss volunteering opportunities with us.”