Portlaoise has been identified as a location in need of a No Name Club for teenagers by the national voluntary organisation.
The organisation says it would be delighted to establish a club in the Portlaoise area and would very much appreciate any time or support from the local community.
Bryan Fennell, communications officer with the No Name Club, said they are very keen to establish a club in the midlands, and Portlaoise would be an ideal location.
He said a strong club in Castlebar has led to several clubs being founded in neighbouring areas, as the benefits of such a club spread by word of mouth.
“Portlaoise will hopefully have the same effect. I’m a midlands man myself and know Portlaoise very well. It is a town that does provide outlets and things to do for young children upto the 12/13 age bracket, but there is nothing really for the 16-year-olds who want to hang out once or twice a week and not worry about things such as the Leaving Cert ,” he said.
“Our volunteers are our biggest assett,” Mr Fennell said. He stressed that it is these people who ensure the club runs smoothly.
The No Name Club, enables young people to organise and enjoy positive alternatives to alcohol and drug-centred activities and increases awareness of the effects of alcohol and drugs, to help young people make informed choices when they are older.
A typical club evening for young people (15-18yrs) takes many shapes, from cards games, movie nights, pizza nights, to simple gatherings.
Many clubs become very involved at community level and support other organisations and charities. All clubs attend national events once affiliated to the national organisation and these events vary from supertalent competitions to national conferences. The largest event of the year is the National Youth Awards, a formal black tie event which is attended by over 1000 young people and volunteers.
Each club is supported by a dedicated programme officer who assists with club establishment, development and compliance. This alleviates pressure from adult volunteers and ensures that best practice is met across the network.
Typically, No Name clubs use existing venues in youth club, GAA halls, schools etc depending on what the local committee deems most suitable.
Information meeting
A local information meeting will be organised by the No Name Club soon to assist anyone interested in setting up the club.
Local man Matthew Kennelly is urging people to help get the club off the ground and volunteer some of their time.
“If anyone out there can spare two hours a fortnight to ‘hang out’ with 15-18 year olds in an alcohol and drug free environment by setting up a no name club in Portlaoise please contact me. We are looking for a committee of at least 6 people. If anyone is interested in giving back please contact me on 086 3182110 or matthewkennelly81@gmail.com You can do as much or as little as you like. All support is greatly appreciated,” he said.
The No Name Club was established in 1978 and today operates clubs in four provinces, with clubs spread across the country, positively influencing more than 20,000 young people who benefit from the servicess the organisation is delivering.
