A RECORD number of volunteers and community organisations in Donegal were recognised on Thursday, July 16 for their dedication to volunteering and the impact their work has on local communities.
The Donegal Volunteer Centre, managed by Donegal Local Development CLG (DLDC), hosted its annual awards ceremony at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Letterkenny, celebrating the spirit of volunteers who make a real difference in communities across the county.
This year’s awards attracted the highest number of nominations ever received, reflecting the depth and breadth of volunteering across the county.
The 2026 Volunteer Individual Recognition Award recognised the outstanding efforts of 57 volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to support others across Donegal.
The Volunteer Project Award honoured ongoing or recently completed projects that demonstrated originality and innovation, strong community impact, and meaningful volunteer involvement.
Members of the Letterkenny Cathedral Quarter group who received their Volunteer Recognition Award at the Donegal Volunteer Awards in the Radisson Hotel Letterkenny. Included in the photo are Nuala Diver Community Development Officer DLDC and Eamonn Bonner manager of the Donegal Volunteer Centre .Photo by Gerard McHugh Photography.
From 15 volunteer groups nominated, 6 winners were chosen by a judging panel.
They were:
· The Mill River Conservation Group, Buncrana
· Survivors Informing Services and Institutions, Glenties
· Gemma’s Legacy of Hope
· Ukraine Voice in Donegal
· All in Club, Creeslough
· Arcade, Dungloe
Speaking at the ceremony, Eamonn Bonner, Manager of Donegal Volunteer Centre, said: “The work of volunteers often flies under the radar. Being able to bring volunteers together to celebrate their contribution is incredibly important. It’s an opportunity to recognise the generosity and kindness of volunteers right across Donegal and to acknowledge the selfless work they do to help others and improve lives.”
The Donegal Volunteer Centre thanks all who submitted nominations and congratulates the winners who were recognised on the night.