Social Inclusion Network launches member directory

ARKLOW GROUP CELEBRATING ITS 12TH ANNIVERSARY

MEMBERS old and new gathered this week to celebrate the 12 year anniversary of Arklow Social Inclusion Network and help launch a new edition of the member directory at the Presbyterian Church Hall.

In 2005, Arklow Community Enterprise (now County Wicklow Community Partnership) and Arklow Springboard identified a need for more support and communication between groups in Arklow that were providing social and community services in the town.

These organisations were invited to an inaugural meeting to discuss the possibility of setting up a network. The response was very positive and the demand was so great that all invitees agreed to take part.

In June 2005, President Mary McAleese launched Arklow Social Inclusion Network with a membership of 30 groups. Since then it has grown to the 80 member groups it has today.

Arklow Social Inclusion Network is all about building and maintaining relationships and the strength of these relationships are part of the backbone and wellbeing of the community.

Members include schools, churches, statutory agencies, voluntary and community groups.

The network has a voluntary committee which organises and facilitates quarterly meetings with guest speakers and presentations on relevant topics. It also holds speed networking events for member groups and provides the space for sharing of local, county and national information on new initiatives, training and ideas.

The group produces a directory of all member groups which is a one-stop shop and a resource used by all.

New member groups are always welcome to join and Arklow Social Inclusion Network would like to spread throughout the municipal district and include clubs, groups and services in Aughrim, Rathdrum and Avoca.

If any local group would like to know more or join the network contact asinarklow@ gmail.com