In a joyful return to its roots, Kildare Volunteer Centre hosted a special celebration at Newbridge Town Hall to mark both National Volunteering Week and the Centre’s 20th anniversary of community service. The event honoured the incredible contributions of volunteers and volunteer-involving organisations from across County Kildare.

“This is our favourite time  of the year,” said David Hand, Manager of Kildare Volunteer Centre. “To celebrate these amazing individuals and organisations in Newbridge, where our journey began 20 years ago, makes it extra special. The legacy Kildare’s volunteers are leaving behind will ripple through generations. Congratulations to all our winners and nominees — thank you for building stronger communities with us.”

Throughout the past few weeks, Kildare Volunteer Centre staff travelled across the county to meet this year’s awardees, capturing stories of inspiration, impact, and community spirit. The theme for National Volunteering Week 2025 is “Building Community Together” — a message deeply reflected in every honouree’s story.

The ceremony, attended by community members, dignitaries, and leaders, featured awards presented by Cathaoirleach Kevin Duffy of Kildare County Council.

2025 Volunteer Awards – Honouring Kildare’s Volunteers

Volunteer of the Year – Sandra Byrne
For over eight years, Sandra Byrne has been the heartbeat of Leixlip Youth and Community Centre. Her commitment, warmth, and leadership have made a profound difference in the lives of countless young people and their families. Described by nominators as “the heart of the centre,” Sandra received overwhelming recognition from staff, parents, and peers alike for her unwavering dedication.

Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award – Aileen Kelly
Aileen Kelly has given nearly four decades of service to Leixlip Arch Club, having been involved since its founding in 1987. From committee leadership to simply being there to offer tea and a listening ear, Aileen has done it all — not for recognition, but because she genuinely cares. Aileen’s legacy of compassion and inclusion will forever be embedded in Leixlip Arch Club.

Volunteer-Involving Organisation of the Year – Newbridge Family Resource Centre
This Centre is woven into the fabric of Newbridge life. Generations have passed through its doors as children, teens, and now parents. Under the stewardship of Centre Manager Ellen and her team, the centre continues to thrive through the efforts of its dedicated volunteers, building on a legacy of heart, resilience, and local pride.

Board Member of the Year – George Hackett
George Hackett has served as a board member of Ashgrove Residents’ Association in Derrinturn for over 20 years. His leadership has led the community to multiple Pride of Place and Climate Change awards. George is a tireless advocate for inclusivity, wellbeing, and innovation — always seeking new ways to improve life for residents, especially the vulnerable and isolated.

Community Event of the Year – Vision Ireland’s Vision Start Awards
This community-driven event wasn’t just an awards ceremony — it was a movement. With over 900 nominations, 150 volunteers in attendance, and 50 charity shops represented, the Vision Start Awards captured the essence of what happens when local hearts and hands come together. A resounding celebration of everything volunteering represents.

Junior Volunteer of the Year – Áine Sheeran
As Chairperson of Milltown Foróige, Áine Sheeran leads with empathy and determination. She is active in national leadership programmes, sits on the Youth Reference Panel, and still finds time to volunteer in Lourdes, serve as a Meitheal leader, and act as Head Girl. Her commitment to service makes her an inspiring role model for her generation and beyond.

Community Volunteer of the Year – Mary Brady
Mary Brady has been a steadfast presence in the Community Volunteers programme since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication in testing and vaccination centres, coupled with her generosity as a mentor to new volunteers, has made her a linchpin of the initiative. Her calm presence and dedication exemplify the spirit of community volunteering.

Pathway Award – Said Abdi Ali
Arriving in Ireland in August 2023 with little English and no network, Said quickly found his path through volunteering. Today, he’s a trusted member of Kildare Community Volunteers and a leader within the Somali community in Kildare. His resilience, leadership, and drive to integrate and support others is nothing short of inspirational.

Special Recognitions

Valentyna
At 96 years old, Valentyna is one of the most inspiring members of the Kildare volunteer community. Displaced by war in Ukraine, she embraced volunteering as a way to contribute meaningfully to Irish life. From participating in Centre projects to knitting over a dozen sensory TwiddleMuffs for those living with dementia, Valentyna is a true embodiment of grace, purpose, and the power of human connection.

Helen Mulhall
This year, Helen completed her term as chair of Kildare Volunteer Centre, a term served with unwavering dedication. Always available, always calm, and always volunteering her time, Helen’s leadership guided the Centre through many milestones, including receiving the National Volunteer Centre Quality Award. Her legacy will be felt for years to come.

Get Involved

Whether you’re looking to volunteer or hoping to recruit volunteers, Kildare Volunteer Centre is here to help. Volunteering builds stronger, more connected communities — and there’s a place for everyone.

Kildare Community Volunteers is a programme where the roles are short term and ad hoc, allowing you to volunteer in a way that both suits your lifestyle and benefits your community.

You will get a chance to volunteer in unique once of community events. Some of the recent events our Community Volunteers have been involved in Brigid1500 events, Junefest in Newbridge and Bealtaine Festival.

You will undertake unique volunteer training with Kildare Volunteer Centre and become a part of our team. You can get involved as often or as little as you like, when it suits your schedule.  You do not have to commit to specific hours every week, they are once off events.

Becoming a Community Volunteer is a great opportunity to get involved in your community and become a part of a core team of volunteers in Kildare. It’s a chance to learn about your local area, meet new people and develop new skills.

For more information about becoming a community volunteer email our Community Volunteer Coordinator John at John@volunteerkildare.ie or call on 0868646698