The chairman of Ballinasloe Town AFC is celebrating after being named an Inspirational Hero at the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards.
Joseph Kelly, who is married with three small children, trains the youngsters of the town three to four times a week and is also a co-ordinator of the GAA academy.
As well as giving up his time effortlessly, he also runs a busy bar in the centre of the town.
Inspirational people from across Ireland were nominated for the Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards, with 26 inspirational county heroes being named from the hundreds of entries received.
Each of the award-winning heroes demonstrated how they have made Ireland a better place with their selfless acts and inspirational deeds during the Covid-19 crisis, and how they have gone above and beyond for others in their local community.
“This year Gala Retail teamed up with Virgin Media for the Inspiration Awards as we wanted to deliver a national platform to shine a light on and reward the amazing people who have become true heroes during life under lockdown and who are making a real difference to Irish society,” said Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail.
“2020 has been hugely difficult for everyone however, it has also demonstrated the immense community spirit that exists within Irish communities.
“Operating in communities throughout Ireland, Gala Retailers have seen first-hand some of the great work that people have been doing and we are proud to have been able to recognise some of these inspirational individuals.
“We were overwhelmed by the level of nominations we received and Joseph along with the fellow inspirational heroes are true examples of people who are making Ireland a better place for us all.”
2020 marks the second year of the Gala Retail Inspiration Awards created as a way of celebrating the selfless acts and inspirational deeds of people in Ireland who are making the country a better place.
As a community retailer with 175 convenience stores nationwide, Gala store owners often hear of inspirational stories in their local communities, and this year’s Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspiration Awards have elevated Ireland’s unsung heroes onto a national stage, giving these inspirational people the recognition they deserve.
