Central volunteers ‘provide inspiration for others’

Carrickfergus Central Primary School PTA members received Volunteers Week certificates from Councillor Andrew Wilson at a Time to Say Thank You event at The Swift, organised by Volunteer Now.
Also pictured are Larne Councillor Maureen Morrow, Angela Wright, Julie Sullivan, Julie-Ann Ashe, Violet Blackwood, Michelle McAlister, Linda Fay and Wendy Osborne OBE, chief executive, Volunteer Now. INCT 27-702-CON — Carrickfergus Central Primary School PTA members received Volunteers Week certificates from Councillor Andrew Wilson at a Time to Say Thank You event at The Swift, organised by Volunteer Now. Also pictured are Larne Councillor Maureen Morrow, Angela Wright, Julie Sullivan, Julie-Ann Ashe, Violet Blackwood, Michelle McAlister, Linda Fay and Wendy Osborne OBE, chief executive, Volunteer Now. INCT 27-702-CON

The celebration, which was held at The Swift, was attended by Wendy Osborne OBE, chief executive of Volunteer Now and Councillors Andrew Wilson and Maureen Morrow.

Glenn Campbell, principal of Central PS, said: “I am totally overwhelmed by the support and dedication of the PTA. PTA activities not only provide us with exciting social events, but also raise funds which help to give the children such an enjoyable education through new resources.

“The PTA’s contribution to the school community provides a collective of professional skills, innovation and new ideas, creativity and collaborative working practices. Not everyone needs a special talent, just a willingness to try a new skill or utilise an existing one. Our PTA has achieved so much and I look forward to continuing this valuable partnership in the coming years.”

Mr Wilson, who presented the certificates, said: “The PTA in Central does great work within the life of their school, and in the process, creates positive role models for the pupils. I have the utmost of respect for any PTA member, and it has to be remembered that individuals take on the positions on a voluntary capacity.

“I fully appreciate the hard work and effort that they put in to the daily running of Carrickfergus Central Primary School PTA, as I know only too well, through my own voluntary work in youth clubs and Boys’ Brigade companies within the borough.”

Angela Wright, PTA chairperson said “I’ve been in the PTA for nearly six years and I am proud to have been part of a dedicated team who do a fantastic job organising fun events for the pupils, whilst raising awareness and funds for our school.”

Wendy Osborne OBE said, “The Week marks the positive impact volunteers make on the lives of people and communities. Many organisations could not deliver the services they offer without volunteers. Likewise, the stories of volunteers, what they do and why they got involved, provides inspiration for others thinking about volunteering to get involved.”