At LauraLynn, we are proud to celebrate National Volunteering Week, taking place from 19th to 25th May 2025. This year’s theme, “Building Community Together”, is a powerful reminder of the role volunteers play not just in supporting our services, but in shaping the heart of our community.
Volunteering is often seen through the lens of what it gives to an organisation and at LauraLynn, what our volunteers give is extraordinary. But this week also invites us to reflect on what volunteering gives back to the volunteer: a sense of purpose, connection, and belonging.
Volunteering is known to:
-
Reduce social isolation
-
Improve physical and mental health
-
Boost self-esteem and confidence
-
Build new skills and relationships
At LauraLynn, we are committed to a two-way relationship with our volunteers. We value not only the time and energy they give, but also the personal growth and fulfilment they gain through their experience with us.
Carol has been volunteering at LauraLynn for seven years shared her experience: “When I began volunteering, I just wanted to do admin work so my IT skills have improved. However, volunteering at events and meeting children and families that use the services at LauraLynn is where I get back so much more than I give. From Light-Up, Family Days, The Oscars… all the events are wonderful.”
We’re also proud to take this opportunity to once again celebrate Karen O'Connor, one of our long-standing volunteers, who was named Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year 2024 at the National Volunteer Awards. Karen’s recognition is a testament to the incredible impact LauraLynn volunteers make every day, not just within our hospice, but across the wider community.
To all of our volunteers, whether you’ve been with us for years or just joined, thank you. Your kindness, compassion, and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of the children and families we support.
