Jimmy Conway of Ballyhale Foróige Club in Co Kilkenny was elected to the National Executive of Foróige, the National Youth Development Organisation, at their 40th Annual Foróige Leaders’ Conference in Tullamore, Co Offaly, last weekend.
Almost 200 volunteer leaders from all over the country took part in the conference which celebrates volunteerism and pays tribute to volunteer leaders who give of their time, energy and expertise to positively impact on young people in their communities.
During the conference An Taoiseach Brian Cowen launched Foróige’s recently developed strategic plan, which maps the future direction for the organisation and will revolutionise the youth work sector.
Participants engaged in lectures, discussion groups, and open forum debates during the intensive weekend. “The Leaders’ Conference is always a fantastic opportunity to learn from other volunteers and gain insights and ideas to bring back to the club. In our work with young people in Foróige Clubs we are in an ideal position to enable young people to develop their skills, confidence and self belief, and to empower young people to achieve their full potential,” said Angela Hennessy, Paulstown Foróige Club, Co Kilkenny.
Speaking at the launch of the Strategic Plan, the Taoiseach said, “One of the great things about this country is that we have a wealth of civic-mindedness, neighbourliness, humanity and decency. It comes into sharp relief during major events, like the recent flooding. But in fact, every day, people are committing time and energy, in a huge variety of ways, for the benefit of society, their local community and individuals outside their immediate family. Foróige stands on the brink of an exciting new phase in its development. I'm delighted to see you committing to change, growth and innovation on a major scale”.
On Friday evening, volunteers from a broad range of Foróige operated services, including Foróige Clubs, youth cafés, computer clubhouses and the Big Brother Big Sister Programme, spoke of their experiences as Foróige volunteers. Volunteerism is a key focus of Foróige’s strategic plan. The organisation will enhance structures and continue to develop more innovative models of youth development to best meet the needs of young people, volunteers and communities.
