Community volunteers across south Dublin were recognised for their dedication, compassion and civic pride at the dlr Community and Volunteer Awards 2026. Hosted at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dún Laoghaire, the ceremony highlighted the people and organisations helping to create stronger, more connected communities.
The event is a notable moment in Dublin news, showcasing the wide range of local initiatives supporting young people, older residents, inclusion, environmental projects and community development across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
Dublin news celebrates local volunteer achievements
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council brought together volunteers, community leaders, elected representatives, council staff and guests for the annual awards ceremony on 5 November 2026.
A total of 36 volunteer nominations and 29 community group nominations were formally recognised. The awards reflected the breadth of voluntary work taking place throughout the county, from social integration and youth programmes to tidy towns projects and vital community services.
An Cathaoirleach Barry Saul praised the nominees, recipients and wider network of supporters whose time and commitment contribute to community life. Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, also thanked local groups and individuals for their continuing service.
Awards recognised seven areas of community action
The 2026 awards covered a broad range of contributions, including:
- Community Organisation
- Volunteer-Led Community Group
- Good Governance
- Moment to Celebrate
- Community Collaboration
- Volunteer of the Year
- Committee Member of the Year
Winners recognised across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown
Several groups and individuals received awards for their positive impact. Dundrum Arch Club won Moment to Celebrate, while Shankill Senior Centre received the Good Governance award. Cuala GAA Club’s Social Integration Project was recognised for Community Collaboration.
Kill Avenue Deansgrange Tidy Towns won the Volunteer-Led Community Group category, and Shanganagh Park House Community Centre was named Community Organisation winner.
Brian Power of the Order of Malta Dundrum Unit was named Volunteer of the Year. Eimear Byrne of 8ú Calafort Dún Laoghaire Sea Scouts received Committee Member of the Year. Special recognition awards also acknowledged the Charity Tractor Run, Community Led Youth Work, a remarkable achievement and the Older Person Council dlr’s 25-year journey of service.
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Why volunteering matters to Dublin communities
The awards demonstrate how local action can strengthen neighbourhoods and improve everyday life. Volunteers often provide practical support, create welcoming spaces and connect people who might otherwise remain isolated.
From community gardens and sports clubs to cultural groups and emergency response teams, these initiatives also contribute to the wider social wellbeing of Dublin. Their work complements public services while giving residents meaningful opportunities to participate and lead.
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The dlr Community and Volunteer Awards 2026 offer a clear takeaway: community spirit is built through consistent local effort. By recognising volunteers and grassroots organisations, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has highlighted the people whose everyday contributions continue to make the county more connected and resilient.