Volunteers Celebrated at Galway City Mayor’s Awards Ceremony
The winners of Galway City Council’s Mayor’s Awards have been announced.
Speaking at an awards ceremony at the Galway Bay Hotel, the Mayor of Galway City, Cllr. Peter Keane said that Galway City Council was proud to honour and celebrate the many people who offer their skills and compassion without expecting anything in return, and who serve as role models for us all.
Speaking on the winners and nominees at the awards, Mayor Peter Keane commented:
"The Mayor's Awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on those whose volunteer efforts have gone above and beyond. On this, the twenty second year of the Awards, it is my great honour and privilege as Mayor of Galway to host this celebration to acknowledge the incredible contributions of the volunteers in our community.”
The Mayor also noted that "the nominees illustrate that Galway city is blessed to be home to an active Meitheal whose unwavering commitment of their time and energy makes the city a better place for all."
Galway City Council would like all volunteers to know their contribution is very much appreciated and that volunteering is celebrated for its inherent value to our society, helping to develop vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities.
Over 90 individuals and groups, who were nominated across all categories received an individually designed Certificate from the Mayor in recognition of their voluntary activity in community life across the city.
The list of award winners in the various categories is as follows.
Arts, Culture, Heritage & Cúrsaí Gaeilge Award:
Galway Street Ambassadors for sharing local insights, event information, and guidance on amenities, they have played a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience and showcasing the best of what Galway has to offer.
Residents and Local Area Award:
Merlin Woods Allotments Group in honour of the group's hard work and selflessness in improving the lives of those around them, bringing people together, and building a more sustainable community.
Community Service & Social Inclusion (Individual) Award:
Johanna Downes for her leadership, humour, and boundless energy which make her an exceptional ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and for Galway.
Community Service & Social Inclusion (Group) Award:
Cancer Care West Support Volunteers who go above and beyond, offering not just their time, but their hearts, to ensure that patients and families feel understood, valued, and supported during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
Senior Citizen Volunteer of the Year Award:
Gerald Molloy in honour of his 15 years as a volunteer with the Galway Hospice Foundation. A true gentleman who represented the hospice at countless presentations and delivered numerous coffee packs to hosts across the city and county.
Environmental Sustainability Award:
Tuatha of Terryland Forest Park this group through their tireless volunteer efforts, have significantly enhanced a local urban park, committing to ongoing nature restoration, conservation projects, and environmental education.
Sports Volunteer of the Year Award:
Sarah Caulfield whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to inclusivity have made a lasting impact. Her efforts have made it possible for more individuals facing physical or financial challenges to engage and feel part of a club.
Children and Youth Support Award:
Galway Sea Scouts a volunteer-led group who has made a significant impact on youth development in Galway, offering young people the opportunity to grow through adventure and outdoor activities. With an inclusive approach, they ensure all children, regardless of background or ability, can participate and benefit.
The Galway City Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to the Galway Hospice Foundation Volunteers who provide companionship, support grieving families, offer personal care to enhance well-being and organise fundraising to sustain vital services. They are at the heart of hospice care, offering their time selflessly to ensure every patient and family receives compassion, dignity, and comfort. Their commitment is unwavering, with many serving for years or even decades, showing unparalleled dedication.
The winners were presented with a beautiful piece of crystal, made by Galway Crystal