Tribute to Age Action computer volunteers

AGE Action has paid tribute to a group of more than 40 unsung heroes from Clare.
These volunteers have provided computer training to more than 250 older people around the county in the last 12 months, as a part of Age Action’s Getting Started programme. Since last April, the volunteers have been training older people to use computers, browse the Internet and utilise email at centres around Clare.
A reception was held for the volunteers, which was hosted by the Clare County Library in Ennis recently to recognise their contribution to their communities.
“Volunteering is all about the local, the community, a sense of place and of making that place a better place for all, it’s about ordinary people doing extraordinary things,” guest of honour, MEP Marian Harkin told the gathering. “Each local area, with their combined efforts, ripple through county level to regional and national and this activity has a very positive effect at all levels.”
Getting Started national development officer, Helen McQuillan, paid tribute to the volunteers. “This training has transformed the lives of people in so many ways. We live in a marvellous information technology age but it is only marvellous if you have the skills to engage and participate.”
She also said that new sponsors will be needed if the programme is to continue.
Mayor of Clare Tony Mulcahy said that participants gained a lot from the courses. “In today’s society, it is critical that we do not leave behind a sizeable part of the population who do not have access to ICT training or equipment. Online communication is an integral part of everyday life for millions of people in Ireland. We must ensure that nobody is left behind.”
He said the programme has numerous benefits. “There is no doubt that the scheme has benefited greatly from partnering with and sharing resources with local organisations involved in community development, social inclusion, education, lifelong learning and services for older people. Local community and voluntary organisation participation and input is important to the development and implementation of the Getting Started programme.
“The programme at local, national and international level would not exist today and could not have been created without the time, energy, commitment and enthusiasm of its volunteers. I have no doubt that those who have completed the training course found that using email and the Internet has had a very positive influence on their lives.”
County librarian Helen Walsh noted the close co-operation that had taken place between the library service and Age Action, with many of the classes taking place in libraries around Clare.
Young musicians from Maoin Cheoil an Chláir played at the event, while the Forever Young choir also performed. At the function, medals were presented to young people who had participated in an art competition with the theme What does a volunteer look like?