Housing Executive Seeks Unsung Heroes for Rural Community Awards

The Housing Executive is inviting nominations for the Rural Community Awards, aimed at recognizing individuals and groups making significant contributions to rural areas in Northern Ireland. Nominations are open until February 27, 2024, with winners having the opportunity to receive funding of up to £1,000 to further support their community efforts.

These awards celebrate the diverse activities undertaken by local communities to maintain vibrant and attractive environments. They also provide an essential platform for the Housing Executive to acknowledge the remarkable volunteer work happening in neighborhoods and villages across rural Northern Ireland.

Recognizing Local Contributions

Last year’s recipient of the Community Champion Award, Patricia McConnell, co-founder of the Carnlough Community Association, shared her experience of being honored. At 82, Patricia reflected on the recognition she received, emphasizing the importance of community service. “It was so lovely to be recognized by the Housing Executive for the effort we put in to improving life for everyone living in our beautiful village,” she stated.

Patricia highlighted the various initiatives her association has introduced over the past year, aimed at improving mental health and well-being for residents aged 30 to 60. Programs such as yoga, reflexology, food hygiene, and first aid classes, alongside ongoing activities like the luncheon club and youth club, have become pivotal in the community.

“I would just love to see more young people volunteering,” she added, noting the positive impact this has on building confidence among younger residents.

Award Categories and Application Process

The Rural Community Awards were first launched in 2014 and have since gained considerable recognition. There are three categories available for nominations:

– The Community Champion Award: Recognizes extraordinary individuals nominated by their community groups. The winning group receives £500, along with a prize for the individual.
– The Rural Community Spirit Award: Open to all community groups in rural areas working collaboratively to enhance their local environment, with a prize of £1,000 for the winning group.
– The Cleaner and Greener Rural Community Award: Sponsored by the NI Housing Council, this award acknowledges communities striving to protect and improve their natural environment. The winning group will also receive £1,000.

To nominate a local hero, interested individuals can visit the Housing Executive’s website at www.nihe.gov.uk and search for the Rural Community Awards, or they can email [email protected] for an application form. Completed applications must be submitted by 16:00 on February 27, 2024.

These awards not only recognize the hard work of volunteers but also encourage the development of rural communities, reinforcing the importance of local engagement and sustainability in Northern Ireland.