Praxis Care Volunteers Recognised During U.N. International Volunteer Day in Bellaghy

• 01 Jan 2023
• |
• N. Ireland

Praxis Care hosted a volunteer recognition event in The Seamus Heaney Home Place in Bellaghy coinciding with the United Nations International Volunteer Day. This was the first such volunteer event since 2019 following the lifting of COVID restrictions.

Volunteers from a range of locations in Belfast, Omagh and Portglenone were presented with certificates of gratitude by Chief Executive Andy Mayhew. 

Des Donnelly, volunteer for nine years with Praxis Care’s mental health befriending service in Belfast spoke about his experience as a volunteer.

“I am involved in befriending and love every minute of it,” said Des. “Most people would consider voluntary work as a chore, an unnecessary commitment and intrusion in their lives but I see it as an opportunity to engage with wonderfully talented staff and service users.”

“I know from my own experience that volunteering makes me a more rounded person, keeps my feet on the ground and makes me more appreciative of my own well-being.

“I know I get more from my volunteering work than I ever give!”

Des Donnelly, befriender

Andy Mayhew was also delighted to recognise volunteers who have been part of the backbone of Praxis Care’s support since its founding in 1984. “We are honoured that so many generous individuals choose to give their time and passion to helping others through Praxis,” he said.

“This event is just a small gesture of thanks. We hope that every volunteer knows how appreciated they are by both the people they are supporting and the whole team at Praxis.”