Praxis Care gathered volunteers, staff, and supporters at Malone House to celebrate the extraordinary dedication of its 80+ volunteers. The event recognised individuals whose commitment over the years has created meaningful relationships, strengthened communities, and brought joy and comfort to the people they support.
Among the volunteers celebrated were Angela Coogan from Belfast, who has devoted 35 years to the Belfast Befriender service, meeting her matches face-to-face and providing telephone support with warmth and compassion; Marian McAnulty, also from Belfast, marking 10 years as a befriender and renowned for the remarkable friendship she shares with her match, Ann – described by colleagues as “a perfect match”; Patsy Devlin from Magherafelt, retiring after 16 years with Praxis Care’s Befriending Service, leaving a lasting legacy of dedication and advocacy; and Jan Rogers from Larne, recognised for her behind-the-scenes contributions, including coordinating Christmas gifts for volunteers each year – a thoughtful gesture embodying the spirit of giving. Together, these volunteers represent decades of experience, compassion, and community impact.
As one of Northern Ireland’s largest social care providers, Praxis Care supports approximately 700 individuals living with mental ill-health, learning disabilities, dementia, and autism. Volunteers are at the heart of this work, providing friendship, guidance, and support to those who may be isolated or vulnerable, while also engaging in creative activities such as music, movie-making, and running group sessions. Others contribute practical support through gardening, communications, and event organisation, and participate in team volunteer days that bring together corporate partners and volunteers to deliver hands-on community projects.
In 2025, Praxis Care hosted 45 team volunteer days across Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Republic of Ireland, involving around 250 volunteers and contributing over 1,500 hours of support. Corporate partners such as Danske Bank and the Department for the Economy played a key role in these initiatives, supporting community projects from festive decorating to volunteering days.
The celebration also highlighted the contributions of the people Praxis Care supports, who give back to their communities through charity shops, animal centres, and local projects. Standout moments this year included Larne SLS supporting the Open in Portrush, and Conlig Day Services raising £4,000 at the Balmoral Show through the sale of plants, vegetables, and planters.
“Some of our volunteers have been with us for decades, and every day they remind us that compassion, creativity, and commitment can change lives in ways numbers alone can’t measure,” said Ian Cardwell, Volunteer Manager at Praxis Care.
The Malone House celebration showcased how volunteers transform lives, build lasting friendships, and strengthen communities, reminding everyone present of the extraordinary difference one person can make.
Anyone interested in volunteering with Praxis Care or arranging a team volunteer day can visit www.praxiscare.org/volunteering/.