Tyrone SVP volunteers celebrated at Mid Ulster event

THERE was rapturous applause and celebration when Tyrone volunteers for gathered together in Mid-Ulster to celebrate 180 years of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) in Ireland.

Taking place during Volunteer’s Week, the annual ‘Member’s Day’ event provided a platform for 150 SVP members in attendance to reflect on the achievements of the hard-working volunteers over the last 180 years, as well as marking personal milestone anniversaries of the volunteers.

Speakers at the event presented an overview of the history of the Society, and delegates were encouraged to look after themselves as well as others while being urged to ignite their collective commitment to volunteering for the future with continued compassion.

There were lively roundtable discussions bringing innovative ideas to the table and it was further revealed amongst the festivities that the volunteers in attendance had clocked up an incredible 546 years of volunteering between them.

Meanwhile, the ever-popular Malachi Cush, SVP ambassador, performed a variety of songs bringing Members’ Day to a close.

Speaking about the annual Members’ Day, Mary Waide, SVP regional president for the Northern Region, said that it was a ‘blessing to have so many eager volunteers who give of their time to help people living in poverty throughout the Northern Region every day’.

“Our 180th Anniversary Members’ Day provided us with an opportunity to celebrate our wonderful volunteers during Volunteers’ Week,” she said. “I was personally humbled to meet the volunteers, who, between them, have clocked up 546 years of service.

“As we continue to serve in our local communities with renewed compassion, I would appeal to anyone interested in joining the Society to please do so as we aim to continue to grow SVP with likeminded volunteers who have the SVP ethos at their hearts. Whether you have 180 minutes to spare or 180 hours, if you are interested in becoming a member of SVP, I would ask you to please consider joining today.”

SVP is an international charity and the largest voluntary charity in Ireland. SVP is committed to promoting self-sufficiency and working diligently for social justice. Dedicated SVP volunteers tirelessly work across all communities to support individuals, regardless of their background, who are battling poverty and social exclusion.

If you require help from SVP or if you would like to become a member, please visit: www.svp.ie