Time to celebrate our community volunteers

Carrickfergus and Greenisland Community Cluster held a volunteer celebration event for over 150 local volunteers to recognise and thank them for their contribution in the Carrickfergus Castle and Knockagh District Electoral Area communities.

The event took place in Carrick Civic Centre courtyard with a barbeque, music and treats for the local volunteers in the Carrickfergus and Greenisland area on Wednesday 4 June.

The event was held during Volunteer Week 2025 which runs from Monday 2 – Sunday 8 June.

Volunteer Week Northern Ireland aims to recognise and celebrate the contributions of volunteers, promote volunteering opportunities, and inspire more people to get involved. Led by Volunteer Now, it’s a week-long event, that highlights the positive impact volunteers have on communities. 

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “I believe it is important for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and the local communities, to recognise the contribution of these fabulous volunteers who have been involved in making our Borough better – using their own time to commit to improving their local areas.

“Our community here in Mid and East Antrim is vibrant, diverse and individual, and has been greatly impacted in a positive way by the efforts of local volunteers.

“The list of benefits volunteers deliver as a result to local residents, groups and families is immense.

“I believe it is important to ensure that the volunteers know how much we appreciate what they do and hopefully keep up their enthusiasm and commitment for the future.”

Cluster Chairperson Lynn McKenzie states: “As a cluster we wanted to recognise how volunteers play a crucial role in strengthening communities by enhancing social connections, building a sense of belonging, and improving overall well-being. 

“They also contribute to the local economy, enrich the social fabric, and foster a culture of service. Volunteering allows local people to gain valuable skills, experience, and confidence, while also making a positive impact on their community.

“This event gave us a chance to say a big thank you to all our volunteers in the Carrickfergus and Greenisland areas.

“The evening has offerred a chance to stop, take a step back and review what has been achieved in each voluntary and community organisation represented.

“We wanted to celebrate and recognise their contribution in an informal way and support them to continue their work in our community. We are grateful for the energy, enthusiasm and dedication local people bring to your roles as volunteers. They say the best present you can give a person is your time.”

Carrickfergus and Greenisland Community Cluster is an initiative of Mid and East Antrim Borough Councils Community Plan – Putting People First. 

This plan aspires to the vision that Mid and East Antrim is a strong, vibrant, safe and inclusive community, where people work together to improve the quality of life for all. 

The cluster programme is a community development Initiative, which promotes collaboration across community groups to deliver benefits, not only for the participating groups, but also for the wider community.

It is supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council as part of its strategic approach to community development.