Laois man Damien Dollard has been honoured with the Volunteer Manager of the Year award at the national Volunteer Ireland Awards.
The awards, which took place in Dublin on Sunday December 8, celebrate Ireland’s outstanding volunteers and volunteer managers.
The Portlaoise man began volunteering with the Civil Defence since 2012 before joining the staff as Civil Defence Officer.
He has been a mentor, a friend and a support to many volunteers.
Having started as a volunteer himself before taking on a leadership role, knows exactly how to be there for the volunteers on the good and the bad days.
Damien knows the volunteers on a personal level and is always there to offer a listening ear if needed.
Many of his volunteers have gone on to get jobs in the emergency services, and Damien’s help and support has given the volunteers the confidence to apply for these jobs.
He is always learning more to make sure that he is providing his volunteers with the best knowledge and equipment to do their jobs.
Volunteering with the Civil Defence is not always easy and volunteers often see people at very low times in their lives, which is hard.
Damien knows how to support his volunteers and help them to see how valuable they are in these moments.
Commenting on the award, Caitriona Ryan, Laois Volunteer Centre Manager said: “Volunteering doesn’t happen on its own – it needs support and guidance.
“Damien is the perfect example of a Volunteer Manager who really understands volunteering and is there to provide a friendly ear and helping hand when needed.
“Volunteering simply couldn’t happen without people like Damien and it’s great to see that recognised at national level.
“I’d like to congratulate Damien along with all of the winners and nominees.”
The 2024 Volunteer Ireland Awards are made possible thanks to support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and award partner Healthy Ireland.
11 category winners and the overall Volunteer of the Year were named at an awards ceremony in the Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown, Dublin on Sunday 8th December.
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