Dec 18, 2024 | News & Events
On Wednesday 11th December 2024, the leading youth organisation in Kerry hosted a number of activities to celebrate the launch of its revised Constitution and new name.
Following extensive consultation with young people, volunteers, stakeholders and the local community, it was decided that the organisation previously known as Kerry Diocesan Youth Service would become Kerry Community Youth Service. This is the first revision of the charity’s Constitution since the organisation was founded. The process was informed by Charity Regulator guidance in relation to good governance and was an opportunity to specifically name youth participation and climate justice as priority commitments.
The programme for the day included a formal launch in KCYS Killarney, hosted by young people which honoured the past, reflected on what community youth work looks like today, acknowledged the contribution of volunteers and information was shared about exciting plans the organisation has for the future.
Linda Kearin, Coordinator of KCYS Youth Justice Programme outlined a new national Court Accompaniment programme, funded by the Department of Justice, which will be piloted in Kerry in the New Year. Anne Murphy, Coordinator of KCYS Youth Information Service explained that KCYS was recently awarded the ERIYCA Quality Label which is recognition from the Council of Europe for accessible and inclusive youth information services. Gareth Harteveld, KCYS Youth Work Development Manager spoke about the ambitious plans the organisation has to expand it’s European youth work programme.
Gareth announced that KCYS has received Erasmus+ funding with support from LEARGAS to invest in youth participation in 2025 with one of their partners under the Council of Europe Quality Label for Youth Centres. KCYS is the only youth organisation in Ireland to have achieved this standard. The planned youth participation programme will include updating youth participation resources and providing training in youth participation for youth workers and volunteers in partnership with ZPTM Brezice Youth Centre in Bulgaria.
Gareth Harteveld, KCYS Youth Work Development Manager said, ‘We are thrilled to receive this funding which will allow us to support young people from Kerry and Bulgaria to work together to update existing youth participation resources. It is so important that this work is led by young people and we are looking forward to working with our Council of Europe Quality Label partners in Bulgaria on this project.’
Following the formal event, all KCYS Youth Centres around the County opened their doors to young people who took part in a wide range of activities to celebrate the youth organisation’s new name culminating in a workshop with Bernard Casey in the Killarney Centre.
Berni Smyth, CEO of KCYS commented, ‘We are delighted to launch our new name. The consultation process has also given us an opportunity to reflect on what community youth work means in Ireland and in Kerry today. As a member organisation of Youth Work Ireland, KCYS is committed to the national campaign ‘Youth Work for All’ which seeks recognition of all young people’s right to local and accessible youth work services and spaces which strongly echoes the view of the young people who took part in this process.’ She called on local representatives to work with the organisation to access additional resources for youth work in Kerry.
Youth People
FRONT ROW YOUNG PEOPLE L – R
Youth Advisory Panel — Conor Flaherty, Niamh Horgan, Leanne O’Grady, Leah WIlliams Morgan, Luke O’Sullivan.
BACK ROW L – R
Finbar Fitzpatrick – Director of Business Improvement Solutions at Gauge Impact
Anne Murphy – KCYS Youth Information
Danielle Gayson – President Elect of Youth Work Ireland
Breda Lynch – Tusla Area Manager
Berni Smyth – KCYS CEO
Matthew Seebach – Senior Manager Youth Work Ireland
Gareth Harteveld – KCYS Youth Work Development Manager
Seamus Whittey – Youth Development Officer KERry ETB
Bishop Ray Browne
Peig O Sullivan – KCYS Family Support Services Co- Ordinator
KCYS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
FRONT ROW L – R
Nicola O Sullivan – KCYS Human Resource Manager
Berni Smyth – CEO
Selena Ross- Centre Manager Tralee
BACK ROS L – R
Michelle O’Neill – KCYS UBU Your Place Your Space Project Co-Ordinator
Anne Murphy – KCYS – Youth Information
Ann Brosnan – KCYS Centre Manager Listowel
Linda Kearin – KCYS Youth Justice Project Co – Ordinator
Gareth Harteveld – KCYS Youth Work Development Manager
Nov 6, 2024 | News & Events
KCYS Killorglin is re-open to welcome all young people.
Ready to connect, explore, and grow? Join us for fun games, tasty snacks, and exciting trips! It’s a great chance to make new friends and create unforgettable memories together.
Check out the days and times below and be part of something amazing!
Every Wednesday
- Secondary Students Drop-In from 1pm – 3pm
- 5th & 6th Class Drop-In from 3:30 – 5pm
- LGBTQ+ Group from 5:30 – 7pm
Every Friday
Sep 16, 2024 | Get Involved, News & Events
We’re thrilled to announce an exciting initiative where young people from two different projects within KDYS are coming together to transform our garden space into a beautiful haven of wellbeing! 🌱✨
This collaborative effort aims to create a sanctuary where both young people and staff can relax, regulate, and ground themselves amidst the calming influence of nature. The revitalized space will offer a much-needed retreat for reflection and connection with the environment.
Project Highlights:
- Collaboration in Action: Our dedicated group of young people from two KDYS projects is working together to bring this vision to life.
- Creative Ideas: The team is incorporating innovative ideas to shape this community space, focusing on elements that promote relaxation and wellness.
- Volunteer Days: Participants will be actively involved in planting, painting, and creating throughout the garden’s transformation.
This project is more than just a garden makeover; it’s about building a shared space where everyone can thrive and fostering collaboration with the young people we work with. Let’s cultivate a place of peace and positivity!
Stay tuned for updates on our progress and ways you can support this wonderful initiative. We can’t wait to see this transformation unfold! 🌷💚
Sep 16, 2024 | Education, Health and Wellbeing, News & Events
The Croige team recently completed a First Aid Responder Training, where we gained a wealth of knowledge! Here are some key takeaways we’re excited to share with you: 🚑🩹
👷 Safety First: When providing first aid, always remember to assess the environment and ensure your own safety first before helping others. Your safety is paramount to effectively assisting someone in need.
📦 First Aid Kit: Always ensure you have access to a fully stocked first aid kit. Being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency.
🔌 Defibrillation (AED) & CPR: Did you know that using a Defibrillator (AED) within the first few minutes of a cardiac arrest can dramatically increase survival rates? Combined with effective CPR, we can greatly improve the chances of recovery. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest public access AED by logging onto Rescue.ie and using the AED locator function.
🔥 Burns: Quick and proper treatment of burns is vital. Submerge the burn in cool water (tepid water for a child) for at least 10 minutes to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Don’t use running water or ice directly on the burned area as that can cause more damage. Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing.
💔 Breaks and Fractures: immobilize the injured area and keep it stable until professional medical help arrives to prevent further injury. Knowing how to handle fractures can make a big difference in the recovery process.
Finally we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible instructor, Sheila Nolan. Over the course of our 3-day training, Sheila’s vast knowledge and engaging teaching style made for an informative and enjoyable training. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Thank you, Sheila! 🌟
🚑 Exciting News! 🚑
As a result of our recent First Aid Responder training, we’ve decided to take action and come together to fundraise for a much-needed defibrillator for our Killarney Centre. This initiative is part of an integration program within KDYS aimed at encouraging young people to actively engage with their community.
We are thrilled to involve our young people in this important cause and are looking forward to organizing various fundraising activities to make this happen. Together, we can enhance the safety of our community and empower our youth to make a real difference!
Why is a defibrillator so important? A defibrillator can be a lifesaver during cardiac emergencies, providing a crucial intervention that can significantly increase survival rates. Having one on hand at our centre will ensure we are prepared to respond swiftly and effectively in critical situations.
Stay tuned for more updates on how you can get involved and support this initiative. Let’s come together to equip our centre with this vital lifesaving device! ❤️
