Expo for young people/teens in Laois

LAOIS Volunteer Centre, Mountmellick Community School and Laois County Council’s ‘Laois Connects’ programme have joined forces to hold a community and voluntary Expo from 11am to 2.30pm on Wednesday 20 November in the school.

Over 30 not for profit organisations and charities will host stands to provide information and showcase their work and services at the ‘Ógra Live Well EXPO’.

There will be speakers from organisations that promote mental health and wellbeing, the sporting world, arts and culture and many more on the day as well as Zumba dancing, aerobics demonstration, live music, games, competitions and a health food area.

The community school’s Deputy Principal Frances Kerry - La Rosa said: “There appears to have been an alarming increase in mental health problems among adolescents and young people over the last two decades centred around issues such as social media usage and influence, climate crisis, wars, loss, isolation, to name but a few factors.

“Today's young people are tomorrow's workforce and the next generation. We need to equip them with life skills, the ability to help themselves initially if they can and then provide them with the knowledge about where to go or who to contact when they need further support. This is what the ‘Ógra Live Well EXPO’ is showcasing. The abundance and variety of excellent supports available to our young people."

Manager of Laois Volunteer Centre Caitriona Ryan said the event provides a great opportunity, “for not for profit organisations or charities in the county to promote the work of their organisation to young people and to hopefully, plant the seed of volunteering.

“Volunteering is beneficial to both the community and the volunteer. Young volunteers, in particular, can learn and share skills, gain experience for their CVs and expand their world view.” 

The Age Friendly Co-Ordinator with Laois County Council Rose Doolin said: “We are delighted to welcome ‘Ógra Live Well’ as the youth version of the council’s Live Well Health and Wellbeing Event which was held in April.” 

The Healthy Laois co-ordinator Emma O’Connor said the event “provides a platform for the students to think about the issues that really matter to them and their locality, and seek answers and information on these topics, which they can then share with their community in Mountmellick.

“This ensures that the voice of young people is heard and valued while empowering the students to take the lead, learn and grow and validates their place in the community” 

If you would like to book a free stand or to learn more contact Caitriona Ryan by emailing info@volunteerlaois.ie or phoning 087 249 9659.