Write a comment
Local charity Bolster Community have launched their search for local heroes and are asking the public to nominate that person that has made a real difference, whether that be to them personally, a loved one, or to the wider community.
Speaking at the launch at Bagenal’s Castle Bolster CEO Jacinta Linden explained: "The individuals who we hope come through will never make the headlines, but their impact is felt deeply in the lives they touch."
Allison Slater, Director of Operations at Bolster Community added: "Throughout life, we encounter thoughtful and kind people who go the extra mile to help others, and we really want to know – who is your ‘Local Hero’? Is there someone who has influenced your life, supported you or a loved one, or consistently goes above and beyond for their local community?"
Many representatives from schools and community groups were present at the launch. With Bolster holding their 20th anniversary ‘Everyday Heroes’ Conference fast approaching on Thurs. 27 March, there is only a week to get your nomination in and entries close midnight 14 March.
Representatives from Newry Chamber, Newry BID and The Newry Reporter, media sponsors of the Everyday Heroes campaign also were in attendance.
An independent judging panel will review and select category recipient’s week commencing 17 March and those recipients will be invited to a special celebration at the Everyday Heroes Conference on 27 March at the Canal Court Hotel, where they’ll be recognised for their impact. This is not a popular vote, each nomination submitted will be considered independently at the judging panel’s discretion.
"There's no shortage of heroes in our community. We know this from the ongoing support for charities like the Hospice. Kevin Bell, Caring Coins, PIPS, Bolster ourselves, all of these locally supported and much admired charities. But why do we need charities. We need charities because there isn't enough money in the system to support people when they need it." Jacinta Linden added.
"Beyond the well known causes, there are many, many unsung heroes who quietly give their time and dedication with no expectation of recognition to help others. So today, our ask of you is that you think long and hard about the people who made a difference in your life, the people that you see, supporting those children in the school who are different, who have no friends. Be the change that we need in carrying through a nomination for an unsung hero and help us raise the expectation of Newry that we can do more, we can do better."
Eamonn Connolly from Newry BID, who supported the event as part of BID’s ‘Health in the City’ initiative, is encouraging people to reflect on those who have made a difference, "We can all think of a Local Hero who has helped us personally or the community in general. It could be a community volunteer, teacher, nurse, perhaps a neighbour or business owner who always goes the extra mile to help. If someone comes to mind, take a few minutes to nominate them as your ‘Local Hero’ today."
Nominations are now open and will run to Midnight Friday 14 March.
- To nominate your Local Hero, visit: bolster-local-heroes
- An independent judging panel will review submissions w/c 17 March and select recipients across five categories (see entry form), who will be formally announced at the Everyday Heroes Conference on 27th March.
- NB. Before submitting a nomination, please ensure you have the nominee’s permission, as winners will be invited to attend the conference and take part in the celebration.
- Tickets for Bolster Community’s Everyday Heroes Conference are also available now at: everyday-heroes-conference
