A meeting has been organised as part of the campaign to set up a Portlaoise No Name Club.
The meeting will be held Wednesday April 12 in the No Limits hall in Kea Lew business park.
Portlaoise was recently 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.
Asset
“Our volunteers are our biggest asset,” 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.
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.
SEE ALSO – Volunteers sought to found Portlaoise No Name Club
