Volunteers from Leitrim Volunteer Centre were honoured to attend two special Garden Parties at Áras an Uachtaráin this June.

On one occasion, members of the Team Hope Knitting Group were invited in recognition of their dedicated voluntary work creating hand-knitted garments to support Team Hope’s projects for children and families in need. On a second day, North Leitrim Volunteers also attended, where they had the opportunity to meet the President of Ireland and celebrate the important contribution volunteers make to their communities. Both visits were a wonderful acknowledgement of the generosity, commitment and positive impact of volunteers across County Leitrim.

Leitrim Volunteer Centre, in partnership with the PEACEPLUS Programme, has been hosting a series of exciting Art and Dance workshops for young people aged 11–17 across Co. Leitrim. These fun, creative sessions have provided a welcoming space for young people to learn about volunteering, express themselves, build confidence and explore their talents. Filled with creativity, laughter and learning, the workshops have been a fantastic opportunity for participants to connect with volunteering and create lasting memories.

Coaching and mentoring are powerful leadership practices that provide your team with invaluable support to reach their goals!

Leitrim Volunteer Centre in conjunction with the Leitrim Public Participation Network provided Coaching, Mentoring and Leadership training workshops funded  by PEACEPLUS in 5 locations in County Leitrim. 

The sessions will be led by Lily Murphy of Blue Heron Coaching. “Coaching, mentoring, and leadership training aren’t just “nice extras” for community groups, they’re what keep them effective, sustainable, and impactful over time”.

Orla Blessing of Leitrim Volunteer Centre stated that:

“Community groups often struggle when key leaders step down or burn out. Leadership training creates a pipeline of people who are ready to step up, so the group doesn’t collapse when one or two individuals leave. Mentoring is especially powerful here—it passes on knowledge, culture, and values in a way that documents or handbooks often can’t”.

Another big factor is better decision-making and collaboration. Trained leaders tend to communicate more clearly, manage conflict more constructively, and involve others in meaningful ways.

There’s also a motivation and retention angle. People are more likely to stay involved when they feel they are growing and being supported. Coaching and mentoring signal that the group values its members, which increases commitment and reduces volunteer turnover.

Finally, it strengthens impact. Without leadership development, even well-intentioned groups can become disorganised or stagnant.

Leitrim Volunteer Centre is shining a spotlight on its inspiring volunteer knitting campaign, which is bringing volunteers and communities together to create handmade items for children in need around the world.

The campaign has seen an outpouring of support from individuals, knitting groups, and community organisations, all contributing their time and talent to craft hats, scarves, mittens, and small toys. These handmade items will be distributed through the Leitrim Christmas Shoebox appeal 2026.

“We are continually amazed by the generosity and creativity of our volunteers,” said Niamh Foran of Leitrim Volunteer Centre. “This knitting campaign is a beautiful example of how small acts of kindness can have a big impact in the lives of children.”

Beyond its global impact, the campaign is also strengthening local communities. Friendships are being made among participants of all ages and abilities, making the initiative both inclusive and rewarding.

Leitrim Volunteer Centre wish to acknowledge the support of Breffni FRC, Drumshabo Library, Kinlough Community and TUS Nua, Carrick on Shannon for their encouragement and support with this campaign.