FOCUS IRELAND CALL TO TEACHERS TO VOLUNTEER

IN the final weeks of Sligo’s title as European Capital of Volunteering for 2017, Focus Ireland is calling on local teachers to support the fight against homelessness.

Focus Ireland is looking for just one hour to 90 minutes a week from teachers, and retired/ trainee teachers, to help a young person aged 12 to 18 and who is experiencing homelessness or is at risk of homelessness.

Teachers know more than any of us that education matters.

It is a proven route out of poverty - a path through which children can see what is possible for them and that can help them to reach their full potential.

Through one to one support, a teacher could enable a young person to, get help with homework, catch up with missed schoolwork, develop study skills, give help with one or two subjects that young people may find challenging.

Local teachers would spend the hour in a local Focus Ireland venue, a community centre or a youth hub which Focus Ireland will find.

One previous Focus Ireland volunteer remarked about the role; “This role is a perfect match for me. I am struck by how this individual support really makes a difference in a young person’s experience of education, how the relationship you build with them during the support can go a long way to build their self-esteem and help their confidence.”

Focus Ireland are looking for teachers who can commit for at least a 12 week period, from September through to May/June.

Focus Ireland founder Sr. Stan launched the charity’s urgent Christmas appeal. If you are interested please contact the Focus Ireland co-ordinator on 086 8554347 or email bernie.boyle@focusireland.ie

Caption for pic: Before and after shots of some of the vandalism at a wasteland area next to Woodlane Crescent in Easkey recently.