Waterford PPN and voluntary awards are officially launched
Waterford City & County Council – Overall Sponsors & Pride of Place Award Back Row L-R: Micheal J. Walsh - Waterford PPN Secretariat, Walter Cullinan - WPPN, Susie Whelan - Waterford City & County Council, Susan Gallagher - Waterford PPN Secretariat, Seamus De Faoite, DOS Waterford City & County Council & Niall O’Brien - Waterford PPN Secretariat. Front Row: Sean McKeown - Chief Executive, Waterford City & County Council, Deputy Mayor of Waterford City & County Council Cllr. John Pratt, Marion O’Mara - Waterford PPN Secretariat & Muriel Tobin - WPPN
The launch of the 21st Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards took place recently at the at The Park Hotel in Dungarvan.
Speaking at the launch Deputy Mayor of Waterford City & County Council, Cllr. John Pratt acknowledged the work of the PPN.
"Waterford has a proud tradition of volunteering and community action, it is what connects our towns, villages and rural areas and Waterford PPN has played a huge role in this by supporting and giving a voice to its 780 member groups/organisations enabling them to shape a better, more inclusive and more vibrant Waterford," he said.
The awards scheme is Waterford’s only platform celebrating the vibrancy of the community and voluntary sector.
Cllr Pratt highlight how the initiative honours the dedication and passion of volunteers and organisations that strengthen wellbeing, inclusion and community life and well- being. A spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council said the awards are rooted in empowerment, inclusivity and active citizenship the awards shine a light on the often unsung heroes that build a stronger more connected society and inspire others to get involved.
"None of this would be possible without the generous support and commitment of the sponsors whose belief in community values helps honor and uplift the unsung heroes among us," said the spokesperson.
"Their support reflects a shared dedication to building a vibrant, inclusive and connected Waterford for all," she added.
This year’s awards are in collaboration with Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Volunteer Centre, Expressway, Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership, South East Energy Agency, BHP Insurance, Cairde Credit Union and Waterford Credit Union, Local Link Waterford and the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
Marion O’ Mara Secretariat member from the Waterford PPN thanked all the sponsors and stated: “The longevity of these awards is a true testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism in Waterford and to all those who have supported this initiative over the years from our committed Council and generous sponsors to the tireless efforts of the PPN Secretariat and staff."
Nominations are now being accepted for the awards in the following categories: Children and Youth; Community Safety; Environment and Conservation; Health and Wellbeing; Spick & Span/Best Kept Residential Area; Social Enterprise; Social Inclusion & Community Support.
The winners of the above awards will receive €700 per category and there will be two runner-up prizes of €300 pategory.
Individual Volunteer of the Year Awards categories will include: Age Friendly Volunteer of the year; Board/Committee Member of the year; Junior Volunteer of the Year. The winner will receive a crystal award and a certificate of achievement.
The prestigious Pride of Place National Award will go to one standout group, selected from the seven category winners who will go on to represent Waterford in the National All Island Pride of Place Awards taking place in 2026.
aWThe closing date for receipt of nominations is Wednesday, September 3. For more information and nominations forms go to www.waterfordppn.ie call 058 21198 or email waterfordppn@gmail.com.
