A CHARITY SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE

KDYS Strategy Plan Meeting

Oct 6, 2023 | News & Events

KDYS Strategy Plan Meeting: Reflecting on a Productive Gathering

On the 29th of September, KDYS (Kerry Diocesan Youth Service) staff & Board of Management gathered together as a team to share expertise, connect with each other & delve into the organisation’s new strategy. The event marks a significant milestone in the journey of KDYS as it embarks on a path of growth & innovation aligned to its new strategic plan for 2023 – 2026 (https://shorturl.at/cnEJ8).

The gathering commenced with a captivating introduction by Ger Godley, a distinguished member of our Board. During his opening remarks, Ger took the opportunity to acquaint the staff with the entire board, an impressive lineup consisting of Shane O’Donoghue, Frances Day, Bernadette Costello, Luna Atkins, Aoife Dare, Bernie Lenihan, Arlene Harmann, Gavin Donaldson & John O’Regan. This introduction served as a testament to the unity and dedication of KDYS’s leadership & staff.

Dr. Sue Redmond, an esteemed figure in the field of youth engagement, took the stage to present on the topic of #YouthParticipation. She kicked off her presentation with a soothing exercise, setting the tone for an engaging & thoughtful discussion. Dr. Redmond guided the audience through an exploration of the various dimensions of youth participation, revisiting the advantages & challenges, encouraging staff to share experiences & revisit this vital aspect from the lens of a young person.

The session was not just about passive listening; it was a dynamic experience involving multiple group activities, which were designed to immerse the team into the realities faced by young individuals engaging with KDYS. Through these hands-on exercises, attendees gained valuable insights into the obstacles & benefits associated with youth participation. The goal was clear: to reconnect with youth participation, further develop a common understanding of youth participation & enhance support for the youth we serve.

Following the insightful exploration of youth participation, the workshop transitioned into a discussion of KDYS’s new strategic plan. Divided into groups, staff & board together, delved into specific goals outlined in the plan. Each group examined one of KDYS’s new objectives, analysed its implications, and brainstormed improvement ideas.

After this dynamic & productive workshop, KDYS staff & board members gathered to celebrate their accomplishments. The evening was marked by a staff party that brought laughter & camaraderie. Among the highlights of the night were the humorous awards presented to many staff members, a testament to the vibrant & spirited culture that defines KDYS.

This gathering was more than just a workshop; it was a testament to KDYS’s commitment to growth, collaboration, and the wellbeing of the youth we serve. It was a celebration of the staff team, their expertise, professionalism & commitment to the young people of Kerry.
Following this dynamic event KDYS is poised to continue making a positive impact in the lives of young people in Kerry & beyond.

KDYS Killorglin are starting a group for 5th and 6th class students!

Sep 13, 2023 | News & Events

KDYS Killorglin are starting a group for 5th and 6th class students on Wednesday evenings from 5.30 pm- 7.00pm in the KDYS in Killorglin.
These classes are beginning today the the 13th of September and will run up until Halloween.

If you would like to know more please get in touch with us through any of our social media platforms or call on 086 1683283.

KDYS says YES to the Killarney Coffee Cup Project

Aug 11, 2023 | News & Events

KDYS Killarney has become part of the Killarney Coffee Cup Project!We have joined this initiative along-side multiple other organisations in Killarney to eliminate single use cups. As of now, in our Killarney centre we will no longer provide single use paper cups, reusable options only!

The Killarney Cup Project is aimed at preserving and protecting our beloved Killarney National Park by eliminating single-use coffee cups from the town. Over 16 BILLON single use cups are used worldwide every year for tea and coffee. For these paper cups to be made 6.5 million trees are cut down and 4 billion gallons of water go to waste every year.

We at KDYS Killarney are proud to be part of this great initiative to help our environment!

What does all this mean for everyone? This means that at KDYS Killarney we will only be using and providing mugs and glasses that are reusable. These will then be cleaned thoroughly in our kitchen for the next use. If you prefer, you can just bring in your own reusable cup 😊.

If you would like to know more about the Killarney Coffee Cup Project head on over to the projects instagram https://www.instagram.com/killarneycoffeecupproject/ or get in touch with us through our own social media.

Coalition Conversations hosted by Mental Health Reform

Coalition Conversations hosted by Mental Health Reform

Dec 16, 2022 | News & Events

The Coalition Conversations was hosted by Mental Health Reform held on 8th December 2022 in the Wood Quay Venue, Dublin.

The aim of the event was to celebrate the work of the mental health sector in 2022. Discussions centred around three themes:

  • Housing and Mental Health – the case for change, moderated by Rory Hearne, Assistant Professor of Social Policy, NUIMaynooth
  • Protecting the Mental Health of Future Generations, moderated by Berni Smyth, CEO of KDYS
  • Responsive Mental Health in an era of Global Displacement, moderated by Roisin Clarke, interim CEO of Mental Health Reform.

Guest speakers who engaged in the discussion on the future of youth mental health which was moderated by Berni Smyth, CEO of KDYS were Dr Niall Muldoon – the Ombudsman for Children, John Keogh – CEO of the ISPCC, Bernie Keogh – Executive Director of Lust for Life and Niamh Fennell – Youth Ambassador with Jigsaw.

This insightful discussion examined learning gained during the pandemic, the need to ensure that mental health services for young people are age-appropriate and coordinated and panellists shared the view that services need to fit young people not the other way around.

Panellists also spoke about the value of safe spaces for young people to meet and early intervention and prevention for young people including teaching young people to recognise and communicate about their emotions from a young age.