Mayo teens urged to reunite with Foróige
Foróige has reopened its clubs in communities across Ireland and is calling on young people in Mayo to join or return to the youth organisation.
The past two years have had an impact on young people across the country but with the world open once more, Foróige offers young people the opportunity to meet and learn new things with their peers in a fun and welcoming environment.
One of those people in Mayo enjoying the benefits of participating with Foróige is 17-year-old Caitlin Thompson. A native of Lacken, she got involved with her local Foróige club, which operates out of Lacken Enterprise Centre, where her mum was a volunteer.
Caitlin, who is still involved with the club today, describes it as an unreal experience.
“Some people drop out after a couple of years but I love it. Being part of it has really helped develop my personality and confidence,” said Caitlin.
A recent study stated that 53% of young people yearn for more ‘in person’ social opportunities. Additionally, the Ombudsman for Children’s Office Survey revealed 60% of Irish children really missed extracurricular activities during the pandemic.
In a report that investigated Irish youth activity during Covid-19, it was noted that young people became extremely reliant on technology and screens for their social interaction. During this time, they missed out on building crucial social skills that set them up for the years ahead.
Despite the many challenges of the pandemic, Caitlin was still able to take part in Foróige online, from normal club meetings to the Leadership For Life Programme, a programme that enables young people to develop the skills and qualities necessary to be inspiring leaders.
“Everything was a challenge in Covid. We couldn’t really meet people in person but I was able do everything from my bedroom online, which was a help.”
With hundreds of clubs located in communities nationwide, Foróige, celebrating its 70 year anniversary this year, plays a vital role in youth development in Ireland, supporting thousands of young people. The clubs are run with the generous help of volunteers. In an effort to enrich the lives of as many young people as possible, Foróige is encouraging youth and the public to find a club near them and get involved.
For any young person wishing to take part in the organisation, Caitlin cannot recommend it highly enough.
“You get to meet so many different people. It is an experience like no other.”
Speaking about the comeback, Barbara Daly, chairperson at Foróige, said: “We are thrilled to open our doors across the country once more. It’s been a long few years and we know our young people and volunteers have really missed their local Foróige clubs.
“To keep our clubs running to the high standard we are known for, we are calling on the general public to get involved. Volunteering with young people is extremely rewarding and we are asking the public to help in any way they can. Our clubs are situated nationwide and cover lots of interest sets, so getting involved is fun, rewarding and worthwhile.”
To find your local Foróige club and information about the organisation, visit www.foroige.ie.