Shannon's Story

Shannon McLauglin graduated from Dundalk IT with an honours degree in Youth Work in 2020. She is a voluntary leader in The Friary Youth Club in Dundalk. Shannon says:

“Before I ever got involved in volunteering, I was young, shy and very quiet and would never step out of my comfort zone. I wouldn’t attend community events by myself and I wouldn’t approach people on my own either. I got given the opportunity to become a voluntary leader in the Friary Youth Club when I was 16. This changed my life for the better! From taking on this role, it led me to volunteer in other voluntary projects and summer camps. I can honestly say that volunteering has led me to where I am today. From volunteering with young people, I realised my passion for youth work, which I am now qualified in. In the past 7 years through volunteering, I’ve gained many life skills, such as communication, teamwork and organisation. My confidence and self-esteem esteemed has boosted massively and most importantly I’ve made friends and memories for life!

Volunteering can happen in a range of sectors, including sports clubs, the Red Cross, Tidy Towns, charity shops, soup kitchens, fundraising events and many more. What I would like other young people to take away is that volunteering is such rewarding work and worth every minute you spend involved in it. It benefits you yourself but it also benefits the wider community, your fellow volunteers and the organisation and people you volunteer for. Please don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone like I used to be, don’t be afraid to volunteer by yourself, there honestly is nothing to be afraid of. Volunteering also is a great extra for your CV, which is something that was always mentioned to me in both school and college. Definitely get in touch with the Louth Volunteer Centre to find out volunteering events that is happening in your area and please don’t be afraid to get involved”

Click Here to search voluntary roles in your area!