Nominations open for Lord Mayor’s Community and Voluntary Awards 

Nominations are open for the annual Lord Mayor’s Community and Voluntary Awards, which — since their inception in 2004 — have recognised 130 voluntary and community groups across Cork for their contributions to life in the city.

Launching this year’s awards at a City Hall reception, Lord Mayor of Cork Dan Boyle said his involvement was an honour for him, given his background in the community and voluntary sector.

“Cork is built on community involvement, and the spirit of volunteerism is at the heart of the social, cultural, and educational life of our city,” he said.

“The annual Lord Mayor’s Community and Voluntary Awards aim to recognise the selfless and dedicated contributions of groups to their communities and our city.”

Mr Boyle said the awards have, over the years, recognised and rewarded many fine recipients.

He offered special thanks to The Echo, which — as title sponsor — had been part of the ceremony from the beginning.

Gráinne McGuinness, the editor of The Echo, said the awards were one of her favourite parts of the year, describing them as one of the most joyous and uplifting events in Cork city.

“There are so many people doing tremendous work all around the city, and most of the time their work is unsung,” she said.

“It’s great to have an opportunity to celebrate the people who make our community and our city what it is.

“It is a source of huge pride for us in The Echo that we have been involved in this project from the start.

“ The Echo and echolive.ie are the paper and website of the Cork community, telling the stories that matter to the people of the city.”

Ms McGuinness added that this newspaper would be sharing the stories of the nominees and winners in the months ahead.

The awards are presented to one overall winner and to six category winners.

The six categories for 2025 are: Arts, culture, recreation and heritage; climate action, active travel and sustainable development; community development and life-long learning; recreation, sport, heath and wellbeing; social inclusion, advocacy and integration; social services, charities and environment.

The public is invited to nominate community and voluntary groups that they would like to see recognised for their good work.

The closing date for nominations is Friday, April 4, and the winners will be announced at a civic ceremony in City Hall on Wednesday, May 7.

Apply online at corkcity.ie/lordmayorawards.