This is your chance to shine a light on some of the extraordinary volunteers of the Irish Red Cross and to recognise the people who provide reassurance, comfort and practical support, who are by your side in times of crisis and emergency.
The Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards, which are now open for nominations, recognise the commitment, compassion, and hard work of Irish Red Cross volunteers who generously give their time for the betterment of communities across Ireland.
“Our volunteers are the people who show up,” said Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General, Irish Red Cross. “They show up for the big moments – like supporting families in Creeslough, helping flood victims in Cork, or reaching isolated communities during Storm Éowyn. But they also show up for the ordinary Tuesday evenings, teaching first aid in community halls, delivering groceries to elderly neighbours, or providing first aid cover at the local football match. These awards are our chance to show up for them. To recognise the people who give their time, their skills and their hearts to make Ireland a kinder place – without ever asking for thanks in return.”
Eight ways you can say thank you and nominate an Irish Red Cross Volunteer in the following categories: Volunteer of the Year; Young Volunteer of the Year; Community Support Volunteer of the Year; Unit Member of the Year; Instructor of the Year; Branch of the Year; Newcomer of the Year; or the Lifetime Achievement Award.
You could nominate a Red Cross branch or volunteer who gives their time to support Ireland’s welcome for those fleeing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza – those who organise integration cafes and fun events, helping sick children to get to hospital appointments, helping families to rebuild their lives, grow their confidence and skills. Or how about the rescue volunteers who brave the elements, night and day, all year round – to search for people on our mountains and lakes. Or a community support volunteer who gives their time to help those who are isolated or vulnerable in our communities – the list is endless.
The winning volunteers will be people who have made a strong impact on their local community and demonstrated creativity, dedication and compassion to their humanitarian volunteering work.
The Irish Red Cross has 73 branches and 4,000 members across Ireland who train and volunteer to ensure communities have access to relevant and timely supports to help them prepare for emergencies, respond when they happen and recover in a way that makes them more resilient.
Nominations are open until 5pm on Tuesday, 30th September. To nominate visit www.redcross.ie/nva where you will also find tips for writing a strong nomination. The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Croke Park, Dublin on Saturday, 29th November.
