Volunteers applauded for helping to create a more ‘confident and connected city’

Volunteers can triple the economic benefits achieved by Belfast City Council in its work with local communities, according to the Lord Mayor.
 
Mayor Niall Ó Donnghaile was speaking recently at an event in Belfast City Hall to mark the European Year of Volunteering.
 
He said volunteering had important social and economic impacts: “Volunteers are helping to extend the quality and reach of service delivery in local communities and for every £1.00 we spend we receive £3.45 in return. Our volunteers also add value to our community services through their individual talents, skills and knowledge.”
 
Presenting certificates to community and play centres around the city as well as the council’s Youth Forum the Mayor said volunteers contributed to a range of services including Summer Schemes, After School and other youth projects. On average people volunteered for 11 years.
 
“We’d like more people to volunteer becoming more active citizens within their communities so that we can make Belfast a more connected, confident city,” added Councillor Ó Donnghaile
 
Hosting the event Chairman of the Development Committee, Alderman Stalford congratulated all those volunteers at the awards ceremony said it was an action that benefited the individual as well as their community.
 
 “Volunteering is beneficial for an individual’s self confidence, quality of life and future employability. It is a way of knitting communities together, making friends and building strong links with others,” he said.
 
Catherine Taggart, Community Development Manager, said: “This event is to recognise and celebrate the hundreds of people who selflessly give the gift of their time to work alongside council staff in the design and delivery of a wide range of services.
 
“We want to thank all volunteers for their passion and their commitment and to applaud their positive contribution to improving the quality of life in neighbourhoods right across the city.”