Carrickergus Gateway Club says thanks to supporters

Enjoying the tea party at Carrickfergus Senior Gateway. Members served tea to volunteers to thank them for their support of the club. INCT 24-703-CON

Members of the club, which is for adults with a learning disability, served tea to volunteers by way of thanks for their contribution.

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Billy Ashe said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of this and most organisations, their contributions improve the quality of life of others. Today’s society cannot exist without volunteers and I want to thank each and everyone for their efforts on behalf of our citizens.”

Running for over 45 years and with more than 100 members and around 27 volunteers, Carrickfergus Gateway is one of the largest in the province.

Leader Thomas Haighton said: “Our club could not operate without volunteers. They are the local heroes that help us provide a vital service in the community. I want to publicly thank all our volunteers for their dedication and continued hard work and to recognise their contribution by marking Volunteers’ Week with this special evening to celebrate their efforts.”

Volunteers attend each week and while they are giving off their time, they are getting something back in return.

Jenny Snoddy, volunteer, said: “Gateway is somewhere that everyone can be themselves while having loads of fun and making lifelong friendships. It is a very rewarding organisation to be part of as you can see, every week, the difference you are making to the members in your community by being part of their lives. If you put your all in, you will definitely get it back.

“I look forward to every Wednesday night and never fail to come home in a great mood - it really is infectious.”

Wendy Osborne OBE, chief executive, Volunteer Now said, “Many organisations could not deliver the services they offer without volunteers. Likewise, the stories of volunteers, what they do and why they got involved, provides inspiration for others thinking about volunteering to get involved.”

For more information on volunteering contact Thomas Haighton, club leader: [email protected]