The Finn Valley Centre in Stranorlar was alive with celebration as Donegal Local Development Company (DLDC) hosted its annual Community Recognition Awards last Friday.
This event honoured the incredible contributions of community organisations and social enterprises making a lasting difference across Donegal.
A special highlight of the evening was the induction of Tom Feeney into the DLDC Hall of Fame 2024.
Tom was a founding member of Pobail le Chéile in 1999 and served on the Board of Directors until his retirement earlier this year. His vision led to the establishment of the Falcarragh Park Run, which now averages 60–80 participants weekly.
Tom also co-founded the Cloughaneely Men’s Shed in 2016, contributing significantly to community projects and enhancing the town of Falcarragh. Known for his commitment to making a difference, Tom has been instrumental in supporting the integration of new community members through various initiatives.
Tom Feeney with Padraic Fingelton and Noel Cunningham
The Community Recognition Awards, supported by generous sponsors including PGIM Ireland, Highland Radio, Tata Consultancy Services, and ATU Donegal, brought together community champions committed to supporting communities across our county.
The evening was masterfully hosted by Noel Cunningham, who brought warmth and charisma to the event. The awards ceremony highlighted outstanding achievements in social inclusion, sustainability, social enterprise, and community partnerships.
The 2024 Award Winners:
Best Peer Support / Social Inclusion Group, sponsored by PGIM Ireland.
Mary Rodgers, Paul Rodgers, and Irene Gallagher, Maghery Senior Social Club; Sarah Kinsley, PGIM Ireland, Padraic Fingleton, CEO of DLDC and Noel Cunningham
Winner: Maghery Senior Social Club
Recognised for: Creating a supportive, vibrant environment for seniors in the community. The club offers twice-weekly gatherings with activities, nutritious meals, and reliable transport, ensuring seniors stay connected, engaged, and supported.
Other Finalists:
Tacaíocht Foghlama Chloich Cheann Fhaola; LYFS Intercultural Football Programme; Swilly Mulroy MS Support Group
Best Sustainable Practice, sponsored by ATU Donegal
Sheila Clancy O’Donnell, Alexandra O’Donnell, Felicia Orifye-Yisau, Sadbh Breathnacha, Circular Dress Collaborative; with John Andy Bonar, ATU Donegal; with Padraic Fingleton, CEO of DLDC and Noel Cunningham
Winner:Circular Dress Collaborative
Recognised for: Promoting sustainable fashion in Donegal by encouraging a circular economy in clothing.
Other Finalists:
Ards Men’s Shed; Forbairt na Rosann; Vincents Charity Shop
Outstanding Community Partnership, sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services.
Angela Ward, Lisa Hone, MICA Action Group; Padraic Fingelton, CEO, DLDC; Martika Grant and Catriona Gallen, Tata Consultancy Services, and Noel Cunningham
Winner: Mica Action Group
Recognised for: Their tireless advocacy for families impacted by defective building concrete blocks.
Other Finalists:
Skiff Rowing Project, Arranmore Island; Slavic Connect; Letterkenny Tidy Towns.
Best Small Community Organisation / Social Enterprise sponsored by Highland Radio
Padraic Fingleton, CEO, DLDC; Sally Brady; Anne Proctor, Bridget Ward, John McCafferty, and Sinead Brady of CFFAM, with Sean Quinn, Highland Radio and Noel Cunningham
Winner: Comharchumann Forbairt agus Fostaíocht Arainn Mhóir (CFFAM)
Recognised for: Serving as the heart of Arranmore Island’s community with a wide array of services, including a community-run post office, men’s shed, and fitness classes.
Other Finalists:
Kidz Club; Ramelton Community Centre; Autism Family Support Group
Best Large Community Organisation / Social Enterprise, sponsored by Tata Consultancy Services
Charlene Logue, Frank Dooley, Marina Carlin, Davyn Crawford and Stephen O’Donnell, Donegal Youth Service; Margaret Patton and Lara Byrne, Tata Consultancy Services; Padraic Finegleton, DLDC and Noel Cunningham
Winner: Donegal Youth Service
Recognised for: Their comprehensive approach to youth development, which includes mental health support, educational guidance, and leadership programmes for young people aged 9-30.
Other Finalists:
No Barriers Foundation; Ionad Naomh Pádraig; Cairde le Chéile / The Vestry
Speaking about the awards, Paul Hannigan, Chairman of DLDC, praised the work of all the nominees and winners, saying,“The dedication shown by these community groups is inspiring. Each one has made a profound difference in the lives of others and has contributed to building a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant Donegal. It’s an honour to recognise and celebrate their contributions.”
CEO of DLDC, Padraic Fingleton, added, “These awards highlight the incredible work being done across Donegal by people who truly care about their communities. It’s inspiring to see the impact of each finalist and winner. They show us what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose, and we’re proud to recognise their achievements and contributions to the community.”
Each winner received an award to commemorate their achievement and a platform to share their stories, further inspiring future projects and partnerships within the county.