Ann O’Rourke
ANN O’ROURKE has given up her time and her expertise to the young children of Wicklow town for over 50 years and is a very worthwhile winner of a Lifetime Volunteer Award.
Ann is a volunteer officer of the Catholic Guides of Ireland. When she was first appointed in 1968, Ann was an Assistant Captain to the older Girl Guides ranging in ages from 11 to 15.
She was promoted in 1971 and was more than delighted to form a similar group but one that catered for younger children aged from 7 to 11, resulting in the formation of the Brigini, with Ann as their Captain.
To this day Ann still works with the Brigini teaching the young members sports, reading, hiking, nature studies while also providing them with self awareness and discipline and helping them to make long-lasting friendships.
Like so many dedicated people, Ann gives the impression that she takes it all in her stride but those close to her know how much preparation goes into every Brigini meeting. Ann’s humble and gentle nature means she was a very pop[ular choice for a People of the
Year Award.