Mayo Community Futures celebrates 20 years of community-led development
Anniversary event in Balla recognises two decades of local planning, volunteerism and community achievement across the county
Mayo Community Futures has celebrated 20 years of community-led development, bringing together community representatives, volunteers and stakeholders from across the county for a special anniversary event in Balla.
The celebration took place at Balla Community Resource Centre on October 17, and recognised the achievements of a programme that has helped communities identify their priorities, develop local action plans and shape their futures since its introduction in Mayo in 2006.
Over the past two decades, 42 communities across Mayo have completed the Community Futures process, with many returning to renew and update their plans in response to changing local needs.
The anniversary event featured a commemorative video highlighting the programme’s impact across the county, with contributions from community representatives, development organisations and Mayo County Council.
Minister for Social Protection, Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary attended as guest of honour and praised the programme’s success.
Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr John Caulfield, noted that Mayo holds a unique position as the only county in Ireland to implement the Community Futures model on a county-wide basis.
He also paid tribute to those whose vision and commitment helped establish the initiative, which continues to support community development throughout Mayo.
Mayo County Council Chief Executive Kevin Kelly reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to the programme and acknowledged the contribution of community volunteers, local development companies, programme coordinators and the Mayo Community Futures Management Committee.
John Cannon, chairperson of the management committee, welcomed those attending and recognised the many individuals and organisations whose support has helped sustain the initiative over the past 20 years.
A special awards presentation honoured people who played key roles in bringing Community Futures to Mayo, including Sr Maureen Lally, the late Terry Gallagher and the late John Coll.
The anniversary also provided an opportunity to recognise the thousands of volunteers, community groups and local leaders who have contributed to the initiative since 2006.
Through their collective efforts, communities have been able to develop plans tailored to local circumstances, strengthen connections between residents and organisations, and build greater resilience at local level.
The 20-year milestone celebrated not only the programme’s achievements to date but also the continuing role of community-led planning in shaping the future of towns and villages throughout Mayo.