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Miriam O’Callaghan Celebrates Barnardos Volunteers Awards sponsored by Softech

15th March 2012 – Well known Irish television and radio presenter, Miriam O’Callaghan presents award to  inspiring volunteer, Abdul Ali Hassan, at the annual Barnardos Volunteer Awards today, in recognition of his dedication and determination to help make a difference in people’s lives.  Pictured are Miriam O’Callaghan, Abdul Ali Hassan, Jane Lawlor  Director Softech, Fergus Finlay, CEO Barnardos.

Softech is the proud sponsor of the The Barnardos Awards, which celebrate the spirit and contribution of some 300 volunteers of all ages and walks of life who dedicate so much of their time to support Barnardos work with children and families throughout Ireland.

Abdul Ali Hassan won the Helping Hands Young Volunteer award, a special award that recognises the contribution that a young person is making in the community. Abdul Ali Hassan won this award for his great drive and motivation as a volunteer with the SWICN Computer Clubhouse. Abdul engaged in numerous programs as a team leader and mentor with the Clubhouse. In 2010 he worked alongside other mentors to create ‘Dublin 8 is Great’, an event which included a cleaning day in the local area followed by a celebration. He also shared his learning from his engineering course at DCU to support clubhouse members with the construction of a robot for Lego League and was involved in a project aimed at creating space for older adults and young people to exchange their life experiences and opinions.

Speaking at the event Miriam O’Callaghan, said, “I am delighted to be here today to meet the volunteers who so generously give up their time to support Barnardos vital work in communities throughout Ireland. You are an inspiration to us all. Your dedication and commitment brings light and hope to children, families and communities in these challenging times.

All across Ireland, those who volunteer their time, skills and energy are helping to keep doors to support services open in their communities at a time when they are needed most. I know that the contribution of volunteers is of immense value to these organisations and networks, many of whom may otherwise struggle to survive. I applaud each and every volunteer for their dedication and commitment to help make a difference in their community. You are changing lives for the better.”

Fergus Finlay, Barnardos CEO said, “As volunteers, you ensure we rise every time. Each day your dedication and commitment encourages us to move forward, to fight harder, and not to give up. Your belief and support, has ensured children across the country continue to receive the best service possible and you instil hope in the possibility of change.”

“With each one of you by our side, we can continue to provide high quality services and supports to children and families around the country. Together we will continue to highlight the needs of those most vulnerable, and work to change our children’s future.

With you we are stronger.” Fergus Finlay concluded.

Barnardos volunteers make an invaluable contribution to Barnardos work and the delivery of services in more than 40 project centres and in Barnardos network of six charity shops.