A COMMUNITY Leadership Training Programme for residents associations has been developed by County Limerick VEC based on a structure initiated by Ballyhoura Development and in conjunction with Limerick County Council. The training guide is the culmination of the VEC’s work with community leaders, from residents associations, parents councils, community groups and community councils and was launched by Minister of State for Housing Jan O’Sullivan at County Hall, last Monday.
The training is about supporting individuals who want to make a change in their community by taking a more active involvement and covers a wide range of topics from residents association goals to conflict resolution and effective communication.
“Housing estates form an integral part of our community so we view them as a priority”, said director of services in the housing section of the council.
“The programme will allow us to work on tangible issues like cleanups, while offering encouragement and advice with the creation of residents groups.
“It is modelled on community leadership programmes already in place in Ballyhoura and delivered by group facilitator and community leadership trainer, Donal Fitzgibbon”.
Cllr John Sheahan said that the launch was about, “supporting community leaders and about building communities”.
Minister of State, Jan O’Sullivan, said that the council was “leading the country in this forum and in its approach to working with communities to identify and support leaders”.
She said the programme would build on a “genuine relationship between local authorities and communities”.
Developing community Leaderships training is suitable for any individual who would like to play a more active role in their community.
Ballyhoura Community development worker, Olivia O’Brien, told the Limerick Post that the scheme already in place was working well.
“We launched it four years ago with residents in Cappamore and we negotiated a lease for a community house where there is something on offer for people of all ages, like basic computer skills courses, after school programmes and health eating advice.
“There was a lot of interest from people looking to get more involved in their community and members underwent training in 2010 and received certificates in community leadership.
“They are big into improving the appearance of their area and won a Pride of Place award last year”.
Any group looking to take part in the training can contact Regina Duane, community education facilitator at County Limerick VEC.
