Donegal is set to celebrate all those who dedicate their time to helping older people during National Volunteering Week starting on Monday 13th May.
Organised by Volunteer Ireland in partnership with the Network of Volunteer Centres and Volunteering Information Services, this week is dedicated to highlighting volunteer work across the country.
Established by 30 volunteers 42 years ago, more than 1,500 volunteers now provide visits and telephone calls to older people who might be lonely or need extra social contact and support.
Volunteer numbers are expected to hit 9,000 in the coming years in order to meet the increasing demand for befriending and support.
Volunteering is an invaluable service to the community and can keep volunteers active, build stronger communities and change lives.
CEO of ALONE, Seán Moynihan, said, “On National Volunteering Week, we want to thank each and every one of our volunteers for everything they do week in, week out for older people. We can’t put a price on the support and benefit that volunteers bring.
“They change the lives for people when they need it most,” he added.
“We hope that more people are encouraged by National Volunteering Week to get involved in something bigger than themselves.
“As our population ages, volunteers will be more vital than ever to help to combat loneliness and the issues we face as we get older. What is so special about volunteering is the benefits it brings to both involved, particularly the relationship between the volunteer and older person.”