Social Inclusion & Community Support Shortlist 2024

Ken Byrne has been a pillar of his community for more than 40 years. His commitment to helping those in need is evident in his work with disability services and food appeals. He has tirelessly organized initiatives to support families facing challenges, ensuring they have access to essential resources. The food appeal he runs has made a significant impact, providing nourishment and support to families struggling to make ends meet. This work has not only alleviated immediate needs but has also fostered a culture of compassion and support among community members. Ken has organised fundraising events that have raised more than €25,000 for various charities, and has participated in walks and events to raise awareness for conditions like Leukemia. 

One of Ken’s most beloved roles has been his involvement in holiday celebrations, particularly as Santa for local schools and creches. His joyful spirit and genuine warmth during these events have created lasting memories for countless children. He also has organised gift drives and gathered donations for local families undergoing difficult times around the holidays. 

“What sets him apart is not only the breadth of his involvement in various initiatives but also the profound impact he has had on the lives of countless individuals and families” writes his nominator.  

Patricia Moloughney is a community powerhouse in Templemore! As a leader, organiser, visionary, and communicator, she has made a significant impact, driving positive change and fostering community spirit. Patricia plays a key role in Tuatha Corca Teine, a group central to keeping Templemore residents informed. She is also an advocate for sustainable living. Through her role with Community Climate Coaches, she promotes eco-friendly practices, organising educational workshops and awareness campaigns that encourage sustainable living, waste reduction, and support for environmentally conscious local businesses. As a member of the Templemore Community Development Association (TCDA), Patricia has played a crucial role in strategic planning and executing projects that promote social, economic, and cultural growth in Templemore. She tirelessly advocates for creating spaces where people of all backgrounds feel welcome. Through her work with Droichead and other initiatives, Patricia ensures that marginalised voices are heard and that every individual in Templemore can contribute meaningfully to the community. 

“She doesn’t just lead projects—she uplifts everyone around her, infusing even the smallest tasks with purpose and positivity. Her ability to see the best in people, her tireless energy, and her passion for creating a more inclusive community are what make Patricia an irreplaceable force in Templemore’s volunteer efforts” writes her nominator.

Caitríona Nic Mhuiris has worked tirelessly to support the challenging work of people raising families. When her children were small, she identified the need for supports for families and set up a parent and toddler group in Oughterard, Co. Galway. She brought a committee together and sourced funding to provide toys and insurance. This group helped reduce the isolation that so many parents of young children feel in the early years, especially for those who had moved into the community. As her children grew older she set about establishing a scout troop in Killannin which now serves more than 100 families.  

However, family is not just about moments of joy. When her triplet sister and her husband passed suddenly, Caitríona found her family grow from 2 children to 4 as she became guardian of her sister’s children. A lightbulb moment happened when she found the term ‘Kinship Care’: an internationally recognised description of the type of family arrangement when relatives or close friends step up to care for children when parents are unable to. Through her determination and vision and hours of volunteering, Kinship Care Ireland was established and is hosted by the national organisation, Treoir. Over the past 10 years she has taken the initiative to champion and advocate for support for the 10,000 plus children in kinship care in Ireland.