07-05-2025
Who are the nine winners of Galway City Council's Mayor's Awards 2025?
Over 90 individuals and groups, who were nominated across all categories received an individually designed Certificate from the Mayor in recognition of their voluntary activity in community life across the city.
This year's nine winners were announced this May at ceremony at the Galway Bay Hotel.
Galway Hospice Foundation Volunteers were the big winners of the night as they received the Galway City Volunteer of the Year Award.
'The volunteers provide companionship, support grieving families, offer personal care to enhance well-being and organise fundraising to sustain vital services.'
'They are at the heart of hospice care, offering their time selflessly to ensure every patient and family receives compassion, dignity, and comfort. Their commitment is unwavering, with many serving for years or even decades, showing unparalleled dedication.'
Among the other winners, Johanna Downes received the Community Service and Social Inclusion (Individual) Award, while the Community Service and Social Inclusion (Group) Award was given to Cancer Care West Support Volunteers.
Cancer Care West Support Volunteers were praised for going 'above and beyond, offering not just their time, but their hearts, to ensure that patients and families feel understood, valued, and supported during some of the most challenging times in their lives' while Ms Downes was awarded 'for her leadership, humour, and boundless energy which make her an exceptional ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and for Galway'.
Senior Citizen Volunteer of the Year Award went to Gerald Molloy (RIP) in honour of his 15 years as a volunteer with the Galway Hospice Foundation.
He is remembered as 'a true gentleman who represented the hospice at countless presentations and delivered numerous coffee packs to hosts across the city and county.' The award was collected by Raymond Molloy on his behalf.
The Arts, Culture, Heritage and Cúrsaí Gaeilge Award was given to Galway Street Ambassadors 'for sharing local insights, event information, and guidance on amenities, they have played a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience and showcasing the best of what Galway has to offer.'
Merlin Woods Allotments Group received the Residents and Local Area Award in honour of the group's 'hard work and selflessness in improving the lives of those around them, bringing people together, and building a more sustainable community.'
Tuatha of Terryland Forest Park was awarded the Environmental Sustainability Award as this group 'through their tireless volunteer efforts, have significantly enhanced a local urban park, committing to ongoing nature restoration, conservation projects, and environmental education'.
Sarah Caulfield took home the Sports Volunteer of the Year Award as her 'dedication, leadership, and commitment to inclusivity have made a lasting impact. Her efforts have made it possible for more individuals facing physical or financial challenges to engage and feel part of a club.'
Galway Sea Scouts were the winners of the Children and Youth Support Award after making 'a significant impact on youth development in Galway, offering young people the opportunity to grow through adventure and outdoor activities. With an inclusive approach, they ensure all children, regardless of background or ability, can participate and benefit.'
