The ‘power of Louth volunteerism’ shines through in local authority awards shortlist

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

The Irish Homeless Street League and one Louth man’s dedication to the Older People’s Council are leading the way in shortlists for the 2026 LAMA All-Ireland Community and Council Awards.

The event, which celebrates the collaboration between communities and local authorities nationwide, will see two Louth County Council projects up for awards.

The Irish Homeless Street Leagues has been nominated for the Community Wellbeing Initiative, sponsored by Healthy Ireland. This project, funded by the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Collaboration and Innovation Fund, combines weekly football sessions with health checks, workshops, and practical supports for individuals experiencing homelessness or social disadvantage.

Delivered in partnership with Dundalk Simon Community, Drogheda Homeless Aid, the FAI, the HSE Health Promotion Team, Dundalk FC, Drogheda United and The Red Door Project, the initiative promotes physical activity, confidence, and wellbeing while offering literacy resources and addiction awareness talks.

In the Community Volunteer of the Year category, Joe Grogan, Chairperson of the Louth Older People’s Council (OPC), has been recognised for his outstanding leadership in advancing the Age Friendly Programme in Louth.

Since taking up the role in 2023, Joe has championed projects tackling ageism, supported the development of the upcoming Louth Age Friendly Strategy 2026-2031, and helped establish initiatives such as the LAMA award-winning Ardee Garden Care & Repair Programme, which combats isolation among older people.

Louth was the first county in Ireland to gain Age Friendly accreditation from the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2008 and continues to lead the way in embedding age-friendly principles across its services.

Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “These nominations highlight the incredible work happening in our communities in County Louth. The Irish Homeless Street League, which has delivered significant benefits to its participants, and Joe Grogan’s work with the Older People’s Council (OPC) are both rooted in compassion and collaboration, ensuring that vulnerable groups and older people in Louth feel supported, valued, and included.”

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “These nominations reflect the core values of Louth County Council - building stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities. The Irish Homeless Street League demonstrates how innovative partnerships can break down barriers and offer opportunities to those most in need. Likewise, Joe Grogan’s leadership in the Age Friendly Programme shows the power of volunteerism in shaping a county where older people are respected, supported, and empowered. Both initiatives are examples of what can be achieved when local government works hand-in-hand with communities, and we are proud to see their impact recognised nationally.”

The 2026 LAMA Awards will take place at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on Saturday, 28 February 2026.