Tag: SPEC

The 2024 Wicklow Connecting Communities Roadshows wrapped up with a successful final event in Arklow, held just before Halloween. Over five events across County Wicklow, the roadshows brought together diverse voices, empowering community members to explore challenges and shared goals under the theme of “Strengthening Community Voices.”

Spearheaded by Wicklow Public Participation Co-ordinator Helen Howes and her colleague Grainne Quinn, our own Barry Symes, Head of ROI Community Finance Ireland, was in attendance to hear from volunteers and the community conversations.

Having collaborated with clients such as Tinahely Community Centre and Arklow Maritime Museum and more recently supporting Enniskerry Tennis Club Barry has first-hand experience of supporting community empowerment through the use of social finance solutions.

Wicklow looks forward to building on these conversations for a more connected and engaged future. For more details on how social finance helps empower voices click here.

Local volunteers at Enniskerry Tennis Club were delighted to welcome a recent visit from Community Finance Ireland (CFI), where they received social finance, to continue their work in fostering an inclusive and thriving community tennis club. The funding will aid ongoing club memberships and contribute to an exciting new court resurfacing project.

With a strong focus on inclusivity, Enniskerry Tennis Club has introduced initiatives such as Affordable kids’ camps and Women in Sports programs. These efforts have made the club a welcoming space for people of all ages and backgrounds. Thanks to the support from CFI, volunteers can continue to invest in improving the facilities for todays and tomorrow’s members.  

Conor Dowd, Club Secretary, expressed his gratitude for the backing, saying:

“The support from Community Finance Ireland couldn’t have come at a better time. This funding will not only enhance our facilities but also help us continue making tennis accessible to everyone in the community.”

Barry Symes, Head of CFI ROI and a tennis fan himself, was thrilled to take to the court during his visit, picking up some tips from the volunteers on improving his own game.

Commenting on the day, Barry said:

“Community facilities like what the group is doing at Bog Meadow are proof that with community buy-in, progress can and is made. We were delighted to be in a position to support them in their journey to game, set, and match for everyone.”

With CFI’s backing, the club looks forward to continuing its objective of making tennis affordable, accessible, and enjoyable for all, in the Wicklow region.

If your local sports club has ambitions get in touch and see how we might help here.