Ballymena South Cluster celebrate local volunteers

The event focused on the contribution that the local volunteers make in Ballee, Ballykeel and Harryville and celebrated their achievements over the last year.

Nicci Wilson of Volunteer Now spoke of the importance of volunteers and the invaluable contribution they make in the community.

Sam Martin from the Department of Communities also spoke of the contribution Volunteers have made to the Neighbourhood Renewal Areas in Ballymena South.

Nikella Holmes, Ballymena South Community Development Officer, spoke of the success which the Cluster had enjoyed over the last year.

Each community group were t given the opportunity to introduce their work and discuss their activities over the past year.

Jim McIlroy Acting Chair of Harryville Partnership Initiative, gave updates on Harryville Youth Club, Braidwater Seniors, Harryville Men’s Shed and the Carson Project as well as the plans for Harryville’s future.

Councillor Stephen Nicholl presented Harryville Partnership Volunteers with certificates recognising their contribution.

Margaret McKeown, President of Ballee Community Association, reported on the various projects currently ongoing in Ballee such as the 60+ Luncheon Club, Ballee Childcare, Supertots, Health Projects, Ballee History Booklet and Spark. Brian Holmes, Chair of Ballymena South Cluster, presented the volunteers with their certificates including the centre’s caretaker, Karen Steele, for her excellent work in the centre.

The last group to present was Ballykeel Together Development Association. Treasurer Laura Dewar spoke of the various activities such as the Mature Luncheon Club, Starbrite Tots, Illusion Dance Crew, various training opportunities and health projects as well as future plans for the area.

Councillor Donna Anderson presented the volunteers with certificates thanking them for their contribution.

Nikella Holmes took the opportunity to announce this year’s upcoming Community awards which will take place on the 9th of November. Nomination forms are now available and can be received by contacting Nikella on [email protected] or 02825631350.

The Celebration Event came to a close with the New Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Audrey Wales congratulating the Volunteers on their success and praised the Cluster for its recent success.

For more information Ballymena South Cluster can be found on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BallymenaSouthCC/.