In Pictures: Limerick Youth Service celebrates milestone anniversary

HAILED by board member Karen Long Eacrett as a “pioneer in what it has developed,” Limerick Youth Service is celebrating its 50th anniversary of helping the Treaty County’s young people reach their full potential.

The organisation, which is based in the city centre, works with young people (aged 10-25) in communities across the city and county, and offers training courses for those aged 16-21.

It also provides vital amenities such as volunteer youth clubs, counselling support, youth diversion projects, skill workshops and Leaving Cert Applied options.

Speaking at a celebration event this Wednesday, CEO of Limerick Youth Service, Fiona O’Grady said she's delighted at the success of LYS. “Young people are our future, they deserve every opportunity to reach their potential. Some young people may have dropped out of education or need additional support, and it’s our job to make sure that they are involved and have
opportunities to thrive,” she said.

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Calvin Kelly, a 19-year-old who helps to run the Youth Café on Lower Glentworth Street, shared how he got started with the Youth Service.

“When I took a tour, I realised I was interested in working at the coffee bar, but there are other options for everyone as well,
like woodworking or cooking.”

For those who don’t conventionally go to school, Calvin agrees that Limerick Youth Service is a good place to learn in other ways: “It’s good if you’re interested in working in restaurants, he says as an example.

“It keeps your mind going, and keeps you on your feet, everyone works very hard here.”

Deputy Mayor Kieran O’Hanlon was present on the day to congratulate the group on reaching its important milestone.

As chairman of the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, he has visited many secondary schools across the county and is aware that the mainstream path to education is not always the right option for every young person.

“Secondary schools for some young people is not the best setting, some people just don’t settle in there”, he started. “It’s great that these students have an opportunity to gain access to third level education through a pathway from here”, he told Limerick Live.

With many upcoming plans and events for 2023, Limerick Youth Service hope to build upon their resources and amenities to continue their success for another 50 years.