CKI Community Knowledge Initiative NUI Galway

Community Partners

Below is a list of just some of NUI Galway's Community Partners. Many of these groups have current volunteer opportunities posted here.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Ability West

Ability West is a voluntary organisation providing high quality, community based services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout Galway. Its core value is to deliver services in a person centred approach in order to develop the potential of each person it serves. Its Volunteer Programme enhances the social and leisure opportunities of service users through friendship and community integration programmes. Volunteers share their time and talents in a variety of activities. Experience is not necessary and training is provided.

For further information: www.abilitywest.ie

Age Action Ireland - Galway

Age Action Ireland is the national network with a focus on ageing and older people. Age Action promotes best practice policies and services for older people. Its main aim is to improve the quality of life of all older people, especially those who are disadvantaged and vulnerable, by enabling them to live full, independent and satisfying lives for as long as they wish in their own homes, or in other appropriate accommodation.

For further information: www.ageaction.ie

AIDS West

AIDS West provides information, education and support on HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in the western areas of Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. We provide a confidential helpline and also distribute a quarterly newsletter. our education programmes cater to schools, youth groups, parents groups, professional groups and community groups.

For further information: www.aidswest.ie

ALa Community Theatre

ALa Community Theatre promotes personal, social and community development, using a combination of drama, music and other art forms as tools in achieving these objectives.

Alan Kerins

Since 2005, we have been supporting communities primarily in Zambia projects in areas such as food security, shelter, education, water and livelihoods. In that period, we have raised in excess of €1.5 million and have helped tens of thousands of vulnerable people. Our motto is Empowering Communities to Shape Their Future

For further information: www.alankerins.ie

Alzheimer Society

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland aims to raise awareness of dementia, provide quality dementia specific care, and support to families and carers of people with dementia. Opportunities which are available for volunteers include participation in local PR, fundraising and raising awareness of dementia. Skills or experience which would be helpful include good communication skills. Previous experience in fundraising would be desirable but not essential. The society will provide training on the role and work of the society and is keen to work with young and enthusiastic individuals to raise awareness amongst young people of dementia.

For further information: www.alzheimer.ie

Amnesty International

Amnesty International is an organisation which works to protect human rights worldwide. By

raising awareness and activism on human rights abuses, it aims to bring justice and protection for individuals in Ireland and worldwide. Its shop and cafe in Middle Street, Galway, supports fair trade, highlighting human rights as an economic issue and enabling customers to shop ethically.

For further information: www.amnesty.ie

Asthma Society of Ireland

The Asthma Society of Ireland has a clearly defined role in providing support services for people living with asthma. With over 470,000 people living with asthma in this country alone, we actively engage with the general public, healthcare professionals, the government, third party organisations and other stakeholders to keep asthma high on the agenda

For further information: www.asthmasociety.ie

Athenry Adolescent Support Project

Athenry Adolescent Support project facilitates a variety of groups for young people aged 12-18 in Athenry. They need volunteers to work with young people on a weekly or fortnightly basis for 1-2 hours in the evening or on an occasional basis for day-trips or holiday programmes. Full training and support is provided.

For further information: www.foroige.ie

Aware

Aware is a voluntary organisation formed in 1985 by a group of interested patients, relatives and mental health professionals, whose aim was to assist that section of the population whose lives are directly affected by depression. 400,000 different people suffer from depression in Ireland at any one time but many hide their condition and never get help. Sadly, over 500 people take their own life each year. Since its foundation, Aware has been working to bring support to depression sufferers and their families, and to dispel the myths and misunderstandings of this devastating illness.

For further information: www.aware.ie

Ballinfoyle Family Services

Ballinfoyle Family Services is a community based family support project. They work individually with families experiencing difficulties in their lives. They also do some broader commmunity support initiatives. Volunteers can help with a primary school homework club for children under 10 years at Tirellan Primary School for 1-2 hours per week.

Ballinfoyle Youth Development Project

BYDP is part of Foróige, the purpose of which is to enable young people to involve themselves consciously and actively in their own development and in the development of society. The project achieves this goal by getting young people involved in activities such as sport, drama, education, etc. It is always looking for volunteers to continue on this extremely rewarding work.

For information on Foróige run projects please visit www.foroige.ie

Ballybane Community Forum

Ballybane Community Forum comprises of local groups, residents associations and other interested agencies and residents to promote the positive work being done in Ballybane, Galway.

Ballybane Community Organic Garden

The Ballybane Community Organic Garden has now been in existence for two years. All

produce has been sown by local community people who have an interest in learning more about organic gardening and growing. Two sessions are held each week, on Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and on Thursday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Activities include planting, weeding and various other gardening activities.

Ballybane and Mervue CDP: After-Schools Programme

The Ballybane Mervue Community Development Project is based in the Ballybane Community Resource Centre. One of its projects is an After-Schools Programme for children aged 6-10 years. The programme operates five days a week with one session from 1.30pm to 2.30pm in the Holy Trinity National School, Mervue and from 3.00pm to 6.00pm in the Ballybane Community Resource Centre. Activities include arts and crafts, baking, games, physical activities and music.

Barretstown Gang Camp

Barretstown offers support programmes to children and families affected by serious illness. These ‘Therapeutic Recreation’ programmes are designed to help children and families deal with the affects of life-threatening illness. Each year around 700 childcare volunteers help the children get the most out of their stay.

For further information: www.barretstowngc.ie

Belarussian Orphanage Project

The Belarussian Orphanage Project is a voluntary registered charity working to meet the needs of differently-abled children and adults in institutions and orphanages in Minsk, Belarus. In 1996 the Belarussian Orphange Project commenced working on many different levels to identify and meet the holistic needs of over 2000 differently-abed children and adults. Over 1200 volunteers have travelled to Belarus and worked in Minsk and the results of their work has vastly improved not only the environment in which the residents live, but also the quality of life of all those in their care

For further information: www.bop.ie

Big Brother Big Sister

BBBS is a mentoring programme that matches an adult volunteer to a young person (10-18 years). The young person and adult volunteer are matched-up based on common interests and personality. The basic idea is that a friendship will form, between the young person and adult volunteer, and promote the positive development of the young person.

For further information: www.bbbsireland.ie

Bohermore Youth Development Project

Bohermore Youth Development Project aims to provide a secure, fun and stimulating environment in which to foster young people’s interests and skills. The Project organises After School Clubs for youths aged from 4-20 years, and activities include, supervised homework, art, sport, drama, music and dancing. The Bohermore Project would appreciate help from volunteers with an interest in any of these areas.

Brothers of Charity Services Galway

The Brothers of Charity Services Galway provide a wide range of services for approximately 1,000 people with learning disabilities in Galway city and county. Service users want to participate more in their local community and they want to have friends. In order to facilitate this, support from volunteers is needed. It is hoped that through the Volunteer Programme service users will link with volunteers, have more access to their communities, leading to meaningful relationships and greater inclusion.

For further information: www.brothersofcharity.ie

Camara NUIG Society

Camara is a volunteer organisation dedicated to using technology to deliver education more

effectively to disadvantaged communities in Africa and Ireland. We take in used computers from Irish companies and individuals, wipe their hard drives of data (in line with US Department of Defence standards), refurbish and load them with educational software before setting them up as Learning Centres in schools in Africa and Ireland. Camara NUIG is a college society, whose aim is to promote Camara in the Galway region and to offer a computer collection-point for local companies and individuals.

For further information: http://green.camara.ie

CAPE Project

The CAPE Project aims to create drug and alcohol awareness through fun activities. Volunteers will be helping out with group sessions with young people aged 14-21, doing a small amount of research for the sessions from time to time, reliability is essential. Full training will be given and volunteers will be supported at all times. The CAPE Project is located in The Gaf Youth Cafe.

For further information: www.youthworkgalway.ie

Hand in Hand

Hand in Hand is a charity inspired by Caitlin Doherty who has been coping with Leukemia since she was two, she is now four years of age. As with the majority of childhood cancers, treatment takes place in Crumlin Children's Hospital, Dublin. As a result of this, families must travel to Crumlin, whilst coping with the day to day running of the family and household at home. Hand in Hands offer practical, hands-on aid and support for families, keeping their world together, when they feel it is falling apart.

For further information: www.handinhand.ie

Chernobyl Children's Project International (CCPI)

Since its establishment in 1991, Chernobyl Children's Project International (CCPI) has delivered over €85 million in direct and indirect humanitarian aid to the Chernobyl region. CCPI aims to restore hope to the people of the Chernobyl-affected region. We continue to deliver relevant projects and programmes by maintaining strong links with many international and Belarussian agencies and organisations and by then adopting and changing the work that we do accord to the changing needs of the children, the adults and communities we work with. This process of ongoing communication informs all of the work we do and allows us to closely monitor and evaluate our programme and project delivery.

For further information: www.chernobyl-international.com

Cheshire Ireland

Cheshire Ireland, in partnership with the HSE, provides a range of supported accomodation, respite and community services for adults with physical disabilities.

For further information: www.cheshire.ie

Children in Hospital Ireland

Children in Hospital Ireland was set up to help parents and children deal with the crisis of hospitalisation. Hospitalisation can be a very traumatic and stressful experience, for both the child and family concerned. The PlayWell Volunteer Service makes hospital a happier place for children and their families by organising play activities for sick children and fundraising to support special fun events.

For further information: www.childreninhospital.ie

Circles

Circles is an activity based learning programme for young people in their late teens, which

aims to develop their personal and social skills. The programme aims to focus on drug and alcohol awareness for young people between the ages of 15-18 years. Volunteers will meet weekly with the young people for one hour to focus on various life skills such as communication skills, leadership skills, etc. through games, discussion and activities. Training and ongoing support will be provided.

For further information: www.thegaf.ie

Civic Defence

Civic Defence is a voluntary organisation comprising of approximately 6000 members throughout the country who voluntarily make themselves available for community support and emergency response. Civil Defence programmes of activity include: Casualty/First Aid; Rescue; Fire Fighting; Radio Communications; Welfare Provision and Radiation Detection and Monitoring. The strength of the Civil Defence organisation lies in its voluntary ethos and with all of those voluntary members past and present who have willingly and freely given their free time and expertise in supporting the organisation for over 50 years.

For further information: www.civildefence.ie

Clann Resource Centre

Clann is a family-centred project whcih enables the community of Oughterard and its hinterland to meet its common goals and changing needs by treating everyone as equal while respecting differences and working in an inclusive and creative way. Working from a community development approach, Clann provides supports and services for a number of groups in the community. Clann co-ordinates a range of activities in response to the identified needs of the community.

For further information: www.clannresourcecentre.com

Console

Console is a registered charity supporting and helping people bereaved through suicide. We respect each individual's unique journey through the grieving process following their tragic loss. Console promotes positive mental health within the community in an effort to reduce the high number of attempted suicides and deaths through suicide.

For further information: www.console.ie

COPE Galway

COPE Galway is a Galway Charity and provides three sectors of social services in Galway City and County. They include: emergency accommodation and support services for people experiencing homelessness; a refuge and outreach service for women and children who experience domestic violence; and Senior Support Services, which include Community Catering and a day centre for older people. At present, Cope Galway is looking for Volunteers to work alongside childcare staff in the playroom in Waterside House Refuge and for Volunteers to assist in promoting and running various fundraising events.

For further information: www.cope.ie

Croí

Croí is a charity dedicated to pursuing and attaining the highest level of Cardiovascular Health Care for the people of the West of Ireland. Since 1985 it has funded and implemented a wide range of initiatives to improve Cardiac Services and Facilities in the region. Volunteers with Croí can get involved with fundraising, events like the Gala Ball or run a marathon!

For further information: www.croi.ie

Digital Enterprise Research Institute (DERI)

DERI’s aim is to promote the development of an 'Online Galway, Accessible to All' by

increasing awareness and use of new web technology tools and services. DERI targets groups ranging from active retirement associations through to primary school pupils. A web-cafe service which has been set up at Salthill's Asylum Seekers Accommodation Centre requires volunteers to supervise the facility.

For further information: www.deri.ie

Dochas - Nasamu Children’s Home Kenya

There is a small charity shop on Newcastle Road, “Harrambee Charity Shop”. This shop was established by Maryanne Wangare to provide funds for an orphanage run by her mother in Kenya. The orphanage Dochas Nasamu Children’s Home now has 55 orphans between the aged 2-18 years. Most of the parents of the children have died of AIDS and some of the orphans have been diagnosed as HIV positive. The only major source of supply and support for the Children’s Home comes from Irish friends and well wishers. Harrambee Charity Shop is an important focal point in Galway for the Children’s in Kenya and needs volunteers to work there during the week. Any help, no matter how small is welcome.

Enable Ireland

Enable Ireland is the leading national voluntary organisation providing a range of support and therapy services for children and adults with physical and sensory disabilities. Established in 1996, the Enable Ireland Child Development Centre on the Seamus Quirke Rd provides services to children with physical and sensory disabilities and their families in Galway. Volunteer opportunities include: fundraising, children’s activities, sports camps and assisting in the Enable Ireland Shop.

For further information: www.enableireland.ie

ENCLUDE

ENCLUDE offer soluntions such as Customer Relationship Management and Charity Accounts IQ Package, specifically aimed at the Irish non profit sector. Registered Irish Charities may also be eligible to receive software donations from our partners such as Microsoft, Cisco and Symantec. For more information please go to www.enclude.ie.

Fana Burca Homework Club, Knocknacarra

Fana Burca Homework Club runs throughout the school year from September-June. Volunteers are welcome to volunteer alongside the co-ordinator to support young people aged 5-12 years with their homework. It is on from 3-5pm. Pick a day that suits you and come along!

For further information: www.foroige.ie

Flirt FM

Flirt FM began its life as Galway’s Student Radio Station in 1995. Encompassing the campuses of NUI Galway and GMIT, it is one of only three Irish student stations. The station broadcasts weekdays year round, taking short breaks for Christmas and Easter. Whether your interest lies in production, technical work, promotion, research, editing or presenting, Flirt FM would like to hear from you.

For further information: www.flirtfm.ie

Foroige

Foroige is a national youth organisation which operates numerous different projects and clubs in Galway City and County. We are involved in direct work with young people in community based projects and in the recruitment and training of volunteers to work with young people. Foroiges purpose is to involve young people consciously and actively in their own development and that of society. There are a wide variety of volunteering opportunities in Galway with Foroige.

For further information: www.foroige.ie

Foundation Nepal

Foundation Nepal (formerly The Nepalese Children’s Foundation) is an Irish registered charity that helps the most vulnerable in impoverished Himalayan villages in Nepal to work their way out of poverty. Primarily, we work with women and low caste families, enabling them to help themselves through micro-business opportunities. We also provide healthcare and educational support where it is most needed. Volunteers play a key role in Foundation Nepal by working directly in Nepal, as well as supporting fundraising activities and contributing technical expertise in Ireland.

For more information, visit: www.foundation-nepal.org

GAF Youth Café

The Gaf Youth Café is a city based support service for young people (14-21years) from Galway city and county. The Gaf believes young people need: somewhere safe to go to enjoy themselves and meet friends; something to do that doesn’t cost a fortune; a safe space to call their own; and access to support in a confidential and respectful place. It is only with the help of dynamic, energetic and affable volunteers that it can achieve these aims.

For further information: www.thegaf.ie

Galway Arts Festival

The Galway Arts Festival is Ireland's largest international arts festival. The Festival showcases a wide variety of international artists alongside the best of Irish talent and includes music (popular, contemporary, jazz, world, classical and traditional), theatre (indoor and outdoor), visual arts, dance, talks, discussions, family events and comedy in its programme. In 2011 the Galway Arts Festival and NUI Galway announced an exciting new partnership. The University will support the Festival through the development of its Volunteer Programme and Selected, a new artist development strand of the Festival for emerging artists and producers.

For further information: www.galwayartsfestival.ie

Galway Bay Half Marathon

The Galway Bay Half Marathon is a 13.1 mile run or walk starting and finishing along Galway's famous coastline on the edge of the city and Bay. The challenge of a 10 km run is also on offer on the day. Participants are encouraged to raise funds for one of Galway Bay Half Marathon's nominated charities.

For further information: www.galwaybayhalfmarathon.com

Galway Centre for Independent Living

The Galway Centre for Independent Living provides relevant and meaningful person centred services that support the full and equal inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society. Our services include: Personal Assistant Service, Accessible Transport Service, IT Learning Centre, Access Auditing Service and Braille and Audio Translation. For further information: www.gcil.ie

Galway City Community Forum

The Galway City Community Forum acts as the representative, collective voice of over 170 community and voluntary organisations in Galway City. Community Fora have been set up in all cities and counties in Ireland to allow effective participation of the community sector in the local political, community and development process.

For further information: www.galwaycityforum.ie

Galway City East School Completion Programme

Galway City East School Completion Programme targets those most at risk of early school leaving and puts supports in place to help them stay in school. Supports include in school, after school and holiday time activities, which are designed to make school more relevant, meaningful and attractive to those most at risk. Galway City East School Completion Programme currently operates in seven schools in the Eastside of Galway City.

For further information: www.galwaycc.ie

Galway Civic Trust

Galway Civic Trust are a heritage organisation which undertakes projects that make a real

and appreciable difference to the attractiveness of Galway as a place to live and work in, or to visit. Galway Civis Trust has completed more than 50 projects since it was founded in 1992. Their work ranges from small-scale tasks such as the erection of plaques and the floodlighting of O'Brien's Bridge, to large-scale projects like the restoration of the Mutton Island Lighthouse and Keeper's Cottage.

For further information: www.galwaycivictrust.ie

Galway Community College

Galway Community College at Moinin na gCiseach caters for the educational needs of all sectors of the community that it serves. They offer innovative and extensive programmes that provide for the needs of the students and for the expectations of society in a constantly changing world. the Galway Community College offers Second Level Education, Adult Education and PLC courses.

For further information: www.galwaycc.ie

Galway Lions Club

Formed in 1972, Galway Lions Club, is part of Lions Club International, the largest service organisation in the world. Galway Lions Club with 60 members is closely involved with and dependent on the generosity of the people of Galway. Their motto "We Serve" is reflected in the many local and international projects undertaken each year by the club.

For further information: www.galwaylionsclub.ie

Galway One World Centre

The Galway One World Centre is an education centre working towards raising awareness and changing attitudes of people in Ireland regarding global development and justice issues.

For further information: www.galwayowc.org

Galway Rape Crisis Centre

The Galway Rape Crisis Centre aims to offer a caring support and counselling service to survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence and seeks to raise public awareness around the issues of sexual abuse and violence by means of education and training. Many volunteers work in providing counselling and telephone helpline services, while other volunteers - including students - provide vital support through researching and implementing fundraising initiatives. For further information: www.galwayrcc.org

Galway Refugee Support Group

The Galway Refugee Support Group is a community development organisation working with asylum seekers and refugees to strive towards a just and fair society where people seeking asylum have access to just and fair procedures, appropriate services, support and resources; and where those granted asylum can fully participate in all aspects of Irish society. GRSG works on a number of levels – supporting asylum seekers and refugees to develop their own initiatives/projects, promoting diversity and interculturalism, research, policy development and lobbying and campaigning to improve the situation of this community in Galway city.

Further information on Refugee Support Groups is available at: www.integratingireland.ie

Galway Science and Technology Festival

The Galway Science and Technology Festival was launcehed in 1998 to try and bridge the

gap between students and industry regarding the science subjects. The Festival has grown over the 13 years and become an annual fixture for all those involved including Students, Teachers, Parents, Universities and Industries throughout the county. The Festival's aim is to inform, educate and inspire young students to chose the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects as their chosen field of study and future career which in turn will continue to provide excellent graduates required to build a strong knowledge economy.

For further information: www.galwayscience.ie

Galway Simon Community

The Galway Simon Community’s vision is one of a society where everyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness is enabled and empowered to have a home appropriate to their needs. It has a range of housing projects for men and women who are homeless or at risk of homelessness which, together with a number of apartments, provide different levels of support based as closely as possible on the needs and wishes of the individual. Volunteer opportunities include: fundraising, shop work or event organisation.

For further information: www.galwaysimon.ie

Galway Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA)

The GSPCA cover the city and county and deal with cruelty cases, animals needing assistance, lost and found animals, road traffic accidents and wildlife. The organisation has a shelter for dogs and cats and at present has 80 dogs and around 50 cats. The GSPCA needs volunteers in lots of areas in both the city and in its shelter in Killimor, Galway.For further information: www.galway-spca.com

Galway Traveller Movement

Established in 1994, the Galway Traveller Movement is a partnership organisation of Travellers and settled people working together to achieve equality and self-determination for the Traveller community in Galway City. The vision of the GTM is achieve full equality for Travellers and to accomplish full participation of Travellers in social, economic, political and cultural life as well as the broader enhancement of social justice.

For further information: www.gtmtrav.ie

Galway Volunteer Centre (GVC)

The Galway Volunteer Centre provides information and advice to people interested in volunteering and to organisations looking for volunteers. The GVC is based in Westside, Galway, and also offers training and support to volunteers and organisations that involve volunteers. For further information: www.volunteergalway.ie

Galway Youth Information Centre

The Galway Youth Information Centre’s objectives include: to provide a service which is open to all young people without discrimination; to ensure the service is centred on the needs of young people; and to provide young people in Galway City with relevant, up to date, and accessible information. Opportunities available to the student volunteer include: updating information files, outreach, information stands, research for publications, and participation in events.For further information: www.youthinformation.ie

Garda Reserve

The Garda Reserve is made up of voluntary unpaid members drawn from the community to

assist the existing service. Garda Reserve members are volunteers with limited powers while on duty. They perform policing duties under the supervision of and accompanied by full time Gardaí. Their role is to provide local patrols and participate in crime prevention initiatives targeted at specific local problem areas.For further information: www.garda.ie

GOAL

GOAL is an international humanitarian agency dedicated to the alleviation of suffering amongst the poorest of the poor. In 2007, its 30th Anniversary, GOAL continues to work towards ensuring that the poorest and most vulnerable in our world and those affected by humanitarian crises have access to the fundamental needs and rights of life, i.e. food, water, shelter, medical attention and primary education. GOAL is non-denominational, non-governmental and non-political.

For further information: www.goal.ie

Gorta – The Freedom from Hunger Council

Gorta’s mission is to work for a world free from the injustices of chronic hunger, poverty and disease, having special regard for the plight of children and the empowerment of women. Gorta was established by the Department of Agriculture in 1965 at the request of the Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations and is now an independent NGO.

For further information: www.gorta.org

Green Sod Land Trust

The purpose of The Green Sod Land Trust: An Foidín Glas, Ireland is to protect and conserve land in Ireland and its indigenous inhabitants; animals, plants, soils, rocks, micro organisms, watersheds and the like, for their own sake and for the sake of present and future generations. The Trust works with local communities and encourages them to live in harmony with nature. It also works to advance education by promoting and encouraging public awareness of the importance of conserving land and protecting the environment for the benefit of present and future generations. www.greensodlandtrust.com

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is an International Organisation that builds and renovates homes in partnership with people in need. Through its Global Village Sending programme Irish Volunteers travel for two weeks to Habitat for Humanity projects around the world where they build alongside the families who will then have the opportunity to own a home for the first time in their lives. No previous building experience is necessary and the Global Village Programme is open to all disciplines within the University.

For further information: www.habitatireland.ie

Harambee Charity Shop

The Harambee Charity Shop is located on Newcastle Road in Galway. All proceeds go to the Dochas children's orphanage in Kenya

For further information: Harambee

Haven

Haven is an international NGO building sustainable communities in Haiti. We are working with some of the poorest people in the western world enabling them to transform their lives. We aim to build strong, resilient communities through training programmes and the provision of the basic human right of shelter.

For further information: www.havenpartnership.org

HeadsUp

HeadsUp is a youth suicide prevention project targeting 15-24 year olds using a mental

health promotion approach. They provide a range of different initiatives from the HeadsUp text service, HeadsUp website, ASIST, Safe Talk course and many more. They are looking for people to become HeadsUp advisors. This involves being part of the team that steers the project in terms of content, direction and focus. HeadsUp advisors also have a role in writing articles, reviews and features for the HeadsUp website and in promoting the HeadsUp project.

For further information: www.headsup.ie

Health Connect Mentors

The Health Connect initiative is a health promotion outreach programme for students in NUI Galway. It involves student volunteers in providing non-judgmental, up to date, student-centred information about sexual health, alcohol and other drugs, mental health, nutrition and safety. Research has shown that using trained peer educators can be the most effective way to get health information across, to enable students to achieve their academic goals and to promote lifelong wellness. Whether you are interested writing articles, talking to students face-to-face, or helping with event organizing and promotion, we have the opportunity for you. The programme offers full training, as well as the opportunity to gain valuable experience learning to work as part of a team.

For further information email: cindy.dring@nuigalway.ie

Home-Start

Home-Start is a support service for families with young children. Each Home-Start volunteer visits a family regularly, offering friendship, emotional support and practical help. The family may be under stress due to isolation, ill-health or financial difficulties - or may simply be exhausted by the challenge of raising small children without much support. In Galway, Home-Start volunteers support families in the Athenry, Loughrea, Carnmore and Oranmore areas. Talking with the parents, playing with the children, helping with housework and assisting with outings or appointments may be offered.

For further information: www.homestartireland.ie

Hospital Meet and Greet

We welcome volunteers from all sections of the community. Volunteers will be at the Main Reception desk and at the Outpatients Department Reception desk.

What is involved?

-give a friendly welcome and reassuring first impressin to all who enter the hospital,

-seek out patients and visitors who are lost or unsure of where they are going; approach and ask can you be of any assistance.

-provide directions

-supply information about visiting times etc.

-assist in accompanying patients to various wards, clinics or departments.

For health and safety reasons volunteers must be at least 18. Anyone can take part-you do not need any qualifications. Support and Training are provided.

HOPE Foundation

HOPE Foundation is a registered Irish charity set up in 1999 to help restore basic human rights to the street children of Kolkata (Calcutta). They work to help children born on the streets, who are denied such needs as food, shelter, healthcare, education, love, safety and support. Today HOPE funds 60 projects in health care, education, vocational training, drug rehabilitation and child protection. HOPE is providing education to 20,000 children and primary health care to over 80,000 people.

For further information: www.hopefoundation.ie

Irish Cancer Society

The Irish Cancer Society are the leading charity in Ireland for Cancer care. Our mission is to play a vital role in achieving world class cancer services in Ireland.

For further information: www.cancer.ie

Irish Kidney Association

The Irish Kidney Association (IKA), founded in 1978, is a charitable, voluntary organisation dedicated to meeting the needs of kidney patients, their families and carers. IKA promotes organ donor awareness through the distribution of the Organ Donor Card and Public Awareness Campaigns; provides help and support to renal patients through counselling, patient aid, holidays, home dialysis machines and other services. Fundraising is essential to maintain the above services. Volunteers are needed, especially during Organ Donor Awareness Week (usually 1st week in April).

For further information: www.ika.ie

Irish Wheelchair Association

The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is the national organisation of people with limited

mobility. With over 20,000 members and service users, the role of IWA is: to advocate for change, locally and nationally, by representing the issues and concerns of adults and children with limited mobility; to research, develop and pilot new concepts of service delivery and to deliver services in partnership with state agencies.

For further information: www.iwa.ie

ISPCC (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children)

The ISPCC exist to ensure all children in Ireland are heard and valued. it provides a unique range of preventative and early intervention services such as Childline, Childline online, Teenfocus and Childfocus. These services are volunteer led - volunteers are fully trained and supported by professional staff. The ISPCC also advocates on behlf of children on campaigns such as children's rights and garda vetting. The ISPCC recieves less than 15% government funding.

For further information: www.ispcc.ie

Junior Achievement

Junior Achievement Ireland encourages young people to remain in education and teaches them the skills they need to succeed in a changing world. Junior Achievement is part of a worldwide organisation reaching out to 9.3 million young people each year. It was established in Ireland inn 1995 and since then has built up a strong demand from schools throughout the country and has created successful partnerships with over 150 leading organisations.

For further information: www.juniorachievement.ie

Junior Chamber International Galway

Junior Chamber International are a membership-based non-profit organisation of 200,000 young people ages 18-40 in 5,000 communities and more than 100 countries around the world. Each Junior Chamber Internaational member shares the belief that in order to create lasting positive change, we must improve ourselves and the world around us. We seek targeted solutions to the unique problems in our communities to build a better world, creating global impact.

For further information: www.jci-galway.org

Kinvara Youth Project

Kinvara Youth Project is run by local people with an interest in the youth of Kinvara. They run a Friday drop in facility from 7.30-10pm for young people aged 15-19 years and are looking for volunteers to help out. They are also looking for people to run/help with workshops throughout the winter months.

Knocknacarra Youth Development Project

Knocknacarra Youth Developmet Project runs after school activities for young people aged 10-18 years in the Knocknacarra area. The purpose of this work is to involve young people actively and consciously in their own development and the development of the community through various activities that are of interest to the young people. There would be various volunteering opportunities due to the varied nature of the work.

For further information: www.foroige.ie

Le Cheile & Rahoon Youth Project

Le Cheile & Rahoon Youth Project is a youth development project. It delivers a programme

of after-school academic supports and diversionary activities for disadvantaged young people. Its primary objectives are to encourage young people to stay on at school and to prevent the mis-use of drugs and alcohol. Volunteers will work with children on a one-to-one basis.

For further information: www.youthworkgalway.ie

Leargas

Leargas is a not-for-profit organisation that operates unger the aegis of the Department of Education and Skills and the Office of the Minister for Children and youth Affairs. Leargas manages European, national and international exchange and cooperation programmes in education, training and youth and community work and has been managing such programmes for over 20 years.

For further information: www.leargas.ie

Macnas

Macnas is a community based arts and theatre company. Founded in 1986 in Galway, Ireland, Macnsa has established itself as one of the most exciting energies in the Arts in Ireland. Macnas brings its particular blend of imagination, passion, wit and self-confidence to bear on a heritage of Irish story and legend in a variety of settings: in theatres, on streets, in stadiums and in television studios in Ireland and abroad.

For further information: www.macnas.com

Meningitis Trust

The Meningitis Trust helps people affected by meningitis, and works to educate the public and raise awareness of the disease. Children, students/young adults and the over 55's are most at risk, but meningitis can affect anyone, at any age, at any time. All the services are free, but with limited financial and other resources, we need help to publicise these services, and to assist with national and local awareness raising and fundraising events.

For further information: www.meningitis-trust.ie

Mercy Secondary School

It is the aim in the Mercy Secondary School to promote partnership between students and staff in the school, local communities and NUI Galway. NUI Galway student volunteers present the ideal forum through which this partnership can be forwarded. Last year, Mercy Secondary School benefited from grinds which NUI Galway undergraduates and trainee teachers provided in its secondary school to exam students. It was a particularly excellent resource to the young people.

For further information: www.mercygalway.ie

Music Harvest

Music Harvest is a non-profit charity that recruits international volunteers to provide music lessons to children in under-resourced communities of the Middle East. Music Harvest was created in 2009 when a great need for music teachers unmasked itself in Nablus, a city in Palestine. Thanks to the generosity of many Western NGOs, charities and foundations, numerous community centres across the Middle East have been the fortunate recipients of many musical interests over the years. Unfortunately, many of these instruments have arrived into areas where very few people are able to play them.

For further information: www.musicharvest.org

Myasthenia Gravis Association

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an auto-immune disease in which the immune system attacks and

damages the nerve signal reception areas. This causes a breakdown between nerves and muscles and results in loss of effectiveness in the muscles of the arms, legs and eyes. MG occurs in all races, in both gender and at any age. One in 10,000 people suffer from MG and many more go undiagnosed and misdiagnosed due to a lack of awareness of the condition. The effectiveness of current treatments for MG means that the outlook for most patients is bright. Although they will not be cured, treatments will lead to a significant improvements in the muscle weakness of most patients. MGA need volunteers to organise fundraising events and in awareness raising campaigns.

For further information: www.mga-charity.ie

NUI Galway Access

The Access schools programme delivers tours, sports and homework coaching to young people (9-13 years). The aim of the programme is to introduce the youngsters to the world of NUI Galway and to open their minds to the opportunities that education can bring into their lives. The volunteering is conveniently based on campus and involves working with a team of other volunteers.

For further information: www.nuigalway.ie/access

NUI Galway Student Connect

Mentoring can be described as providing guidance, support and practical help through life crises or into new stages of development. The Student Connect Programme at NUI Galway is run to help first year students by linking them up with a group of other first year students and a post-first year Mentor. It’s a simple programme aimed at speeding up the rate at which first year students make friends and learn about the University.

For further information: www.student-connect.nuigalway.ie

NUI Galway Career Connect Mentoring Programme

Need help figuring out your career? Why not talk with a Mentor. Career Connect puts students in touch with a Career Mentor - somebody working in an area or career that may be of interest to them. Over a period of time the Mentor shares experience, expertise and advice with the student to assist them with their career development.

For further information: www.nuigalway.ie/careers

NUI Galway Societies

Societies offer excellent volunteering opportunities from working in the wider community to helping create vibrant social, cultural, humanitarian and educational events for the University community. To volunteer with a society, and partake in the ALIVE programme, log into ‘Your Space’ on www.socs.nuigalway.ie

Nurture Africa

Nurture Africa exists to nurture the mental, physical and emotional growth and well being of Ugandan AIDS/HIV infected and affected orphans and vulnerable children by providing health care, education, food, clothing and shelter. Nurture Africa promotes the values of providing an enabling physical and psychological environment that fosters growth and self-actualisation for the children to assume leadeship roles, and have a positive impact on Ugandan society.

For further information: www.nurtureafrica.ie

Positive Mental Health Foundation

The Positive Mental Health Foundation’s trained facilitators deliver a course of eight sessions on a weekly basis to Transition Year/Pre-Leaving Certificate students in schools both in Galway City and County. The aim of the programme is to enable students to develop sound mental and emotional skills through discussions and group work. Areas covered include bullying, emotions/feelings, self-esteem and stress.

For further information: www.positivementalhealth.ie

Rahoon Family Centre

Rahoon Family Centre is committed to providing a quality service to support the needs of

families in the local community. The centre runs pre-school groups and after-school groups for children from 3-13 years. Volunteers help out with any of the groups and ideas for activities are always welcome.

RehabCare - West

RehabCare provides a range of community and centre based services to people with disabilities and mental health issues in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. Particular emphasis is put on health and welfare; education and training; social housing; and employment and personal development/recovery. RehabCare supports people in regaining control over their lives following illness or difficulty.

For further information: www.rehab.ie

Riding for the Disabled Association

We are a national voluntary organisation which provides the opportunity of recreational and therapeutic riding and carraige driving to any person, mentally or physically disabled who meet medical criteria, and who might benefit in their general health and happiness. The main focus for the Riding for the Disabled Association is to broaden the physical and mental horizons of those affected by disability.

Skills or experience that would be helpful:

Are you a riding instructor with time to spare? You don't need a special instructor's qualification to teach disabled people. We can do that with our training programmes and assessments.

We need volunteer helpers for the actual rides. It is not always essential to be knowledgeable about horses, but helpful. There will always be someone to show you what to do. All rides will be supervised by trained instructors and many riders need 2 or 3 additional helpers to ride.

We are looking for volunteers between the ages of 16-75 who are relatively fit. We run day courses to train you as a helper. There are two sessions on a monday: morning and afternoon. The whole day runs from 112.30-4.30. Volunteers pick a session but if they could do both-great!

For further information: www.rockmountridingcentre.com

Salthill Youth Club

Salthill Youth Club are looking for energetic, enthusiatic, spirited, imaginative fun-loving volunteers! The club is on every Friday in the Captains Deck, Salthill from 7-9pm.

Samaritans

Samaritans provides non-judgemental and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. Its service is entirely dependent on voluntary support from ordinary people in the community whether it be on the phones or through fundraising.

For further information: www.samaritans.org

School Completion Project Tuam

Volunteers can assist in running homework clubs with secondary and primary school students. There are a number of students with very low levels of literacy who need individual support. Also volunteers can get involved in issue-based groups, creative programmes and support in bringing groups on trips and outings. The programme targets potential early school leavers in 5 schools in the Tuam area: 2 secondary and 3 primary.

Scoil Bhride

Scoil Bhride is a primary school serving the communities for Shantalla and Westside.

Each year some of our children experience difficulties in doing their homework. To help ease these difficulties and to ensure that these children maximise their academic potential we provide them with homework help. At this club, mentors help the children with their homework, reading and to further their computer skills. As this work is quite labor intensive we need quite a few volunteers to work side by side with the school staff. Interested volunteers must be able to make a commitment for the October to May period.

Scoil Chroí Íosa

Scoil Chroí Íosa students attend access summer camps, NUI Galway maths students carry out observation of class work and NUI Galway medical students have faciltated CPR training with Scoil Chroí Íosa children.

For further information: www.scoilchroiiosa.ie

Scouting Ireland

Scouting Ireland is the National Scout Association for Ireland and a member of the World Organisation of Scouting. The aim of Scouting Ireland is to create an environment and atmosphere in which young people can grow to reach their full potential and become active and dynamic citizens. Scouting is value-based - scouting values respect for others, the environment and oneself. Talk to Scouting Ireland if you are interested in working with young people on practical and fun activities.

For further information: www.scouts.ie

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Established in 1977, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) is an international non-profit, marine wildlife conservation organisation. Our mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world's oceans in order to conserve and protect ecosystems and species. Sea Shepherd uses innovative direct-action tactics to investigate, document, and take action when necessary to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. By safeguarding the biodiversity of our delicately-balanced ocean ecosystems, Sea Shepherd works to ensure their survival for future generations.

For further information: www.seashepherd.org

SERVE

SERVE is a development and volunteering organisation committed to tackling poverty in the majority world. SERVE focuses specifically on programmes and projects that help communities enhance the lives of children and young people and recognises that gender equality is pivotal to achieving justice, equality and sustainable development. SERVE offers short term volunteering placements during the summer months on our development projects in Brazil, South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, India and Thailand. SERVE volunteers work in solidarity and partnership with marginalised and oppressed communities, empowering them to tackle the root causes of poverty and injustice.

For further information: www.serve.ie

shOUT!

The overall aim of shOUT! is to provide a safe, fun, confidential and relaxed environment, where young Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trangender (LGBT) people can be themselves, socialise with their peers and work together to stop discrimination against LGBT people. We work to provide a space for LGBT people (ages 14-23) to promote friendships with peers, to provide an experience of inclusion, acceptance, social justice and fun in a safe and supportive environment, and to address issues and concerns affecting young people. The project also aims to liase with community groups, organisations and schools to increase awareness of homophobic bullying and discrimination and to explore ways of eliminating such behaviours. We also aim to empower the young people that attend shOUT! to take ownership of the group and decide on the activities and campaigns that the group wants to do, and to provide opportunities and tools for young people to make positive changes in their community and society as a whole, in particular regarding LGBT people and their rights.

For further information: www.lgbtyouthgalway.com

Simon Community Galway

The Galway Simon Community is a Galway based Charity that provides care, accomodation and supportive services to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the West of Ireland. Established in 1979, Galway Simon has since developed a continuum of services to best facilitate the most vulnerable people in our society today. We currently provide accomodation to over 100 men and women throughout Galway City. In addition to this our Day Centre provides additional supportive services to families and individuals who are experiencing homelessness.

For further information: www.galwaysimon.ie

Special Olympics Connaught

Currently Special Olympics Connaught offers the following sports: Aquatics, Athletics,

Badminton, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling Equestrian, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Kayaking, Pitch & Putt and Table Tennis. It also offers the Motor Activities Training Programme (MATP). In addition to providing sports training and competition, Special Olympics Connaught also incorporates the Athlete Leadrership Programme (ALPs), the Family Support Programme, Healthy Athlete and Volunteer Programme.

For further information: www.specialolympics.ie

SpunOut.ie

The Galway based SpunOut.ie website is a youth-led media initiative covering all aspects of youth info, health, lifestyle and activism. SpunOut.ie aims to guide young people through life with quality information, support and inspiration. It also seeks to provide a platform for getting help

For further information: www.spunout.ie

St Vincent de Paul, Croi na Gaillimhe

Croi na Gaillimhe Resource Centre provides a social club for older people and educational supports for youths and adults. It also provides adult education programmes and opportunities for intergenerational learning.

For further information: www.croi-na-gaillimhe.org

Supporting Nurses Overseas

The School of Nursing and Midwifery, NUIG in 2006 set up a charity called "Supporting Nurses Overseas" to operate solely for the benefit of improving the quality of nursing/medical care in hospitals, hospices and communities in developing countries, by providing funds for medical/nursing supplies/equipment, and the support of education and training programmes to enable hospitals, hospices and community development programmes in African countries such as Ghana, Kenya, Zambia and Rwanda to build capacity and support sustainability in their communities.

Suas Society

Founded in 2002, Suas is a youth and education focused organisation, with programmes in India, Ireland and Kenya. Suas supports the education of over 10,000 children a year in its overseas schools. A network of twelve college societies provides opportunities to volunteer in mentoring projects in Ireland and to manage fundraising activities. Its Overseas Volunteer Programme offers enthusiastic young people the opportunity to volunteer in a community-based school or educational project in India or Kenya for ten weeks.

For further information: www.suas.ie

UNICEF

UNICEF is the leading children’s organisation, reaching children in more than 150 less-developed countries around the world. UNICEF believes that every child should have clean water, food, health care, education, and a safe environment in which to grow up. It works with local communities, organisations and governments to make a lasting difference to children’s lives.

For further information: www.unicef.ie

VSI

VSI is the Irish branch of an international NGO promoting peace through volunteering. We

place people on a number of short, medium and long-term volunteering opportunities in Ireland and in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. We also run a youth programme, which allows young people who face economic, cultural, social or personal obstacles to take part in volunteering and peace education programmes in Ireland and around Europe. We are looking for volunteers for the Youth programme.

For further information: www.vsi.ie

Youth Work Ireland – Galway – Westside

Youth Work Ireland – Galway - Westside is a voluntary youth organisation that works with young people in Westside. The project aims to promote the social and personal development of young people through enjoyable educational activities. Volunteers assist in the homework clubs, youth and teenager clubs.

For further information on this project and other national projects please visit www.youthworkireland.ie

Volvo Ocean Race- Let's Do It Galway!

The Volvo Ocean Race is the world's premier yacht race for professional racing crews. This is the 10th running of this ocean marathon series since it began life in 1973 as the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race and is one of the world's toughest sporting events.

The race started in Alicante in October 2008 and will span 37,000 nautical miles with Galway being the eight of eleven stopover Ports during the 9-month round the world race. Galway is the first Irish, and smallest ever host port, and as a city that knows how to throw a party, it will bring a unique flavour to the two week ‘stopover' from 23 May - 6 June 2009. Let's Do It Galway are planning a festival of water and land-based fun and festivities for all the family starting with the arrival of the 8 boat entries in the Volvo Ocean Race which includes Irelands ‘Green Dragon' on the weekend of 23 May.