Mayo Volunteer Centre has seen some 230 volunteers register with the centre so far this year. Following the success of Ireland’s first National Volunteering Week in May, interest in volunteering remains at a high.
Of those registered with the volunteer centre, some 240 volunteers have already been placed in roles this year and begun volunteering. Since Mayo launched its countywide service in 2010, volunteers placed by the centre have contributed an incredible 73,929 hours of voluntary work to community groups and charities across the county. Using the current average industrial wage, this work equates to a value of more than €1,600,000.
Shauna Jackson, manager of Mayo Volunteer Centre said: “So far 2012 has been a great year for volunteering in Mayo. The summer months provide a great reminder of how valuable volunteering is in Ireland. This summer over 400 festivals and community events will take place across the country, all of which rely heavily on the tireless efforts and dedication of volunteers.
“The London 2012 Olympic Games also provide a great reminder of the impact of volunteers, not just because of the 75,000 volunteers required to help run the Games, but the thousands of volunteers in sports clubs across Ireland who help Irish athletes train week in week out. For every Olympic success story, there are countless volunteers whose hard work and commitment have helped each athlete reach the Olympic stage. Volunteers play a vital role in Irish sport, arts, culture and community.”
Ms Jackson continued: “For those interested in volunteering, it couldn’t be easier to get started – visit www.volunteermayo.ie, call 096 71444 or drop in to our volunteer centre on Tucker Street in Castlebar or Cathedral Road in Ballina to register as a volunteer. We have over 200 active opportunities for volunteers that range from once off roles with little time commitment required, to longer term roles working with Mayo based community groups, organisations and charities.”
Mayo Volunteer Centre is a member of Volunteer Ireland. Volunteer Ireland works to promote, facilitate, and celebrate volunteering in Ireland. For more information visit www.volunteer.ie
