Laois group claims top prize at People First Credit Union Community Champions Awards
Ballinakill Community Development Association took home the top award on the night along with a cheque for €10,000
ANOTHER successful year was reviewed at the annual general meeting of People First Credit Union.
With branches in Portlaoise, Athy, Abbeyleix and Stradbally, the meeting in the Clanard Court Hotel, Athy on Wednesday 29 January was told that over the past year, 1,341 new members joined the union, while total savings grew by €2,809,687 to €134,254,208.
In 2024, 26 community groups received €37,883 in funding. A total of €7,000 in student scholarships was awarded to seven students from secondary schools within the common bond area.
Those who benefited from the student scholarships were Ava Churchouse from Heywood Community School; Rian Maher, St Mary’s CBS; Tara Ring, Scoil Chríost Rí; Sorina Stratu, Portlaoise College; Sadhbh Bergin, Coláiste Dhún Másc; Elizabeth Byrne, Athy College and Oisín O’Donohue, Árdscoil na Tríonóide.
Carol Murphy, marketing manager at People First Credit Union, said that applications are now open for this year's leaving cert students hoping to start college in September. Students can apply for the scholarship at www.peoplefirstcu.ie/services/scholarship-award.
This year’s People First Credit Union Community Champions Awards showcased the work of local groups.
Ms Murphy said: “We launched the Community Champions Award to shine a light on those who dedicate their time, energy and passion to making our communities stronger, kinder and more vibrant places to live.
“The Community Champions Award is a €10,000 award created to fund capital projects that leave a lasting impact on our community. We want to support initiatives that don’t just make a difference today but will continue to benefit future generations, shaping a more sustainable and inclusive community for all.” Ballinakill Community Development Committee was named as the award winner for its Virtual Tour Project, which highlights the village’s historical features and business sites while promoting active lifestyles, community engagement, tourism and documentation of local heritage.
Runners-up and the €2,000 award winners were Athy Sing and Sign and Abbeyleix Community Garden for their outstanding contributions to the community.
Credit union chairman Clive Davis said: “We are thrilled to announce a €129,058 dividend payment to members this year. The growth of our loan book and savings reflects the trust our members place in us, and we are grateful for their continued support. The success of initiatives like the Community Champions Awards demonstrate our commitment to fostering positive change in the areas we serve.” The meeting was told that People First Credit Union continues to meet or exceed all regulatory reserve and debt provision levels required by the Central Bank, with total assets growing by 2.5% to €160,076,224.
