Clare launches European Volunteering Capital 2027 programme

More than 450 people gathered in Ennis on Tuesday as County Clare formally launched its European Volunteering Capital 2027 programme.

The event, held at Treacy’s West County Hotel, brought together volunteers, community groups, voluntary organisations and public representatives from across the county. It marked the start of a year‑long series of festivals, recognition events, storytelling projects and other initiatives aimed at encouraging greater participation in volunteering.

Clare was awarded the European Volunteering Capital 2027 title by the Centre for European Volunteering (CEV) following a joint bid by Clare County Council and the Clare Volunteer Centre. The launch was hosted by Clare FM presenter Alan Morrissey and featured discussions on the 2027 plans, partnerships between voluntary bodies and public agencies, and volunteers’ experiences.

Key attendees included Clare County Council Chief Executive Gordon Daly, Cathaoirleach Cllr Joe Killeen, Clare Volunteer Centre manager Sharon Meaney, representatives from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Volunteer Ireland. Over 40 voluntary and community organisations showcased their work, while entertainment was provided by Harmony Bro, Ennis Brass Band and Music Generation Clare.

A Volunteer Ambassador Programme was also announced, offering four volunteers the chance to travel to Gdańsk, Poland, in February 2027 for an Erasmus+‑funded knowledge exchange. Applications, open to volunteers aged 18 and over, close on 19 November, with ambassadors to be named on 4 December.

The official website, clare2027.ie, was launched alongside the programme, providing details of the competition and upcoming events.

Source: Clare Champion. Photo: Jay's Photography / Pexels.