Call for the Fleadh volunteers 2019 begins already
IF you ventured out during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Drogheda you are sure to have seen the red (and green) army of Fleadh Volunteers around the town.
Whether you visited the Fleadh Information Office, were at the gig rig, attended a concert or went to a competition the Fleadh Volunteer team were there to lend a helping hand. There were also volunteers from the Civil Defence, Coastguard, and many other voluntary services in the town to ensure the safety of the public who were enjoying the event.
Louth Volunteer Centre were tasked with managing the Fleadh Volunteer programme and they report that over 1,200 people applied to volunteer at the Fleadh. While volunteers travelled from all over Ireland and the world for the Fleadh – including from countries such as the US, UK, and France – it was the local community who really rallied around to make sure Fleadh Cheoil was such a success with 75% of people who volunteered coming from the Drogheda area and almost 90% from counties Louth and Meath.
Gráinne Berrill, Manager of Louth Volunteer Centre stated, “The community spirit and desire to ensure that Fleadh goers and visitors to Drogheda had a positive experience amongst Fleadh Volunteers was really amazing, and they had a great time too. Volunteers themselves said that they found great benefits in taking part with local volunteers reporting it was the best experience ever. They met great people and new friends.’
Others remarked, “I had a fab week working alongside amazing people. It was great to be part of the welcoming atmosphere generated by volunteers” and” ‘It was a life changing experience for us, we will be back next year”.
Gráinne also noted “There are so many people to thank; Coca- Cola International Services who sponsored the Fleadh volunteer programme; the Fleadh Executive Committee and Louth County Council for their support; the Westcourt Hotel for hosting our Fleadh Volunteer Party; Drogheda Chamber and the local business community who generously supported our volunteer raffle and above all the hundreds of volunteers who gave their time so generously, they were the heart of the Fleadh and key to its success in Drogheda”
Recruitment has already started for volunteers in 2019. If you want to be part of the Fleadh next year get in touch with the Louth Volunteer Centre team at www.volunteerlouth.ie/fleadh or 041 9809008.