Ballyhoura Development in celebration of Cork Volunteer week, hosted a "virtual" coffee morning on May 20th. The purpose was to celebrate and acknowledge the stellar work of volunteers across the North Cork area of the Ballyhoura region. The volunteer role and response has been integral to the success of communities in response to Covid-19 and ongoing community inclusion and supports.

Mayor of County Cork Cllr. Ian Doyle, in his opening address, extended his appreciation to the incredible volunteers across Cork, to the staff of Ballyhoura Development, the HSE and to his colleagues Cllr. Deidre O' Brien & Cllr. Kay Dawson, both of whom echoed appreciation of community team work and dedication. In attendance "virtually" were representatives from Cork County Council, The HSE, Cork Volunteer Centre, Doneraile Covid-19 Response Team, St. George's Arts & Heritage Centre, Mitchelstown Social Hub, Doneraile Active Retirement Group, Kildorrery Community Development Ltd, "Singing for the Brain" to name but a few.

Adam Lucey from Cork Volunteers Centre referenced the Cork Volunteer Awards 2020. Nominations for this are now open until September 10th. The morning proved to be a wonderful opportunity for connection with each other, a celebration of each other's contribution and an event that left everyone smiling, supported by the backdrop of the church bells of St. George's Arts & Heritage Centre ringing out as a mark of appreciation to all the volunteers across the Ballyhoura area.