Ip CLONMORE YL 2023 - 2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Welcome to Clonmore Youth Club!
The trustees have pleasure in presenting their report together with the unaudited financial statements of the charity for the year ending 31 March 2024.
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in the notes to the accounts and comply with the Charity's governing document, the Charities Act (NI) 1964 and Charities (NI) Order 1987.
We are pleased to share our 2023-2024 for Clonmore Youth Club. This report outlines the organisation's key achievements, challenges, and the significant impact of our work over the past year. Our commitment to fostering a safe, engaging, and educational environment for young people remains at the core of our mission.
CYC continues to thrive, expanding our reach and enhancing the services we provide. Through innovative programmes, dedicated volunteers, and strong partnerships, we are making a real difference in the lives of young people. We are also delighted to welcome our new Leader in Charge, Aoife, who joins us at an exciting time. We wish her every success in her role and look forward to her leadership in shaping the future of Clonmore Youth Club.
Additionally, our newly expanded committee brings fresh energy and enthusiasm, strengthening our governance and decision-making. Together, we are building a vibrant, supportive space where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.
Thank you for being part of our community – we look forward to an exciting journey ahead!
WELCOME FROM LEADER IN CHARGE, AOIFE
As I mark my first six months as Leader in Charge at Clonmore Youth Club, I want to reflect on this incredibly rewarding experience. Working within such a welcoming and supportive community, alongside dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to create a safe and enjoyable space for young people, has been an absolute privilege. From the outset, I have been met with kindness and enthusiasm, and I am truly grateful to be part of this wonderful team.
The most fulfilling aspect of my role has been the opportunity to engage with the children and witness their growth, confidence, and enjoyment each week. Clonmore Youth Club is more than just a place for activities—it is a space where friendships are formed, skills are developed, and lifelong memories are created. The commitment and passion of our volunteers, combined with the energy and enthusiasm of the young people, make this club a truly special part of the community.
As I look ahead, I am excited to continue building on our progress and further develop the opportunities available to the children and families we serve. I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who has supported me in these first six months, and I look forward to many more successful and fulfilling years at Clonmore Youth Club
VOLUNTEERS AND TRAINING
CYC continues to thrive thanks to the dedication and hard work of our incredible team of volunteers, who are at the heart of everything we do. Their passion, commitment, and generosity enable us to deliver high-quality programmes that engage and inspire young people.
Over the past year, we have welcomed 12 new volunteers, including Junior Volunteers and Blue Crew members. Their enthusiasm has been invaluable in running our weekly youth club sessions, organising special events, and creating a positive and supportive environment for all our members. Whether leading activities, offering guidance, or simply being a friendly face, our volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the success of CYC.
This year, we prioritised training to equip our volunteers with essential skills. They completed First Aid & Defibrillation, Money Heroes for financial literacy, Autism Training for Inclusivity, and Child Protection & Safeguarding to ensure young people’s safety. Additionally, Mental Health First Aid helped volunteers support emotional well-being. These sessions strengthen our team and enhance the support we provide at CYC.By fostering a culture of learning and collaboration, we are strengthening our volunteer network and, in turn, enhancing the experiences of the young people we serve.
We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers for their dedication, time, and energy. Their contributions make a lasting impact, not only within CYC but also in the wider community.
WEE RASCALS SUMMER SCHEME
JULY 2023
The Wee Rascals Summer Programme engaged 25 children in creative and interactive activities, including storytelling, arts and crafts, sensory play, and mindfulness exercises. This year, we partnered with Kayleigh from Flourish, who led inspiring art sessions where the children created superhero capes, fostering their creativity and selfexpression.
A major highlight of the programme was the visit from the Belfast Playbus, which provided an exciting play experience that encouraged social interaction and imaginative exploration. The children also had the opportunity to create their own teddies with Crafty Teddies, an activity that sparked joy and promoted emotional connection.
Katie from Action Mental Health also visited to facilitate engaging mindfulness games, helping the children explore their emotions, develop self-awareness, and build positive mental well-being strategies. Additionally, the programme included a trip to Palace Stables, where the children participated in hands-on learning experiences about nature and the environment, deepening their understanding of the world around them.
Parents and caregivers provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, noting improvements in their children’s confidence, creativity, and ability to engage with others. The Wee Rascals Summer Programme continues to offer a safe, fun, and enriching environment where young minds can grow, explore, and thrive.
SENIOR SUMMER SCHEME
JULY - AUGUST 2023
Our Senior Summer Scheme 2023 welcomed over 60 young people, offering an exciting and dynamic programme designed to build confidence, foster friendships, and encourage new skills. Through a mix of adventure, creativity, and hands-on learning, participants engaged in a variety of experiences that made for a memorable summer. One of the standout moments was the residential trip to Emerald Park, where young people took on thrilling rides and team challenges, developing resilience and camaraderie. The excitement continued with an all-nighter featuring a trip to Odyssey for bowling and cinema, followed by a pizza feast, lip-sync battles, and dancing, creating an unforgettable experience. The outdoor adventure took centre stage at Colin Glen, where participants tested their teamwork and courage on a range of highadrenaline activities before spending a relaxing afternoon exploring Belfast.
The programme also placed a strong emphasis on skill development and well-being. Katie from Action Mental Health led active games focused on mental health, helping participants build emotional resilience before the new school year. Creativity flourished with tie-dye workshops led by Lauren Martin, where young people designed their own vibrant clothing and glaze painting with Hollie and Calie from Mud Ireland, where they crafted personalised ceramic cups. Chef Andrew guided them in the kitchen by making sweet French bread, which provided a fun and educational culinary experience.
Essential life skills were also a focus, with Gary from the British Red Cross delivering First Aid and CPR training, ensuring young people gained valuable knowledge in emergency response. Earlier in the programme, participants participated in a highenergy Sports Day, where classic challenges such as the three-legged, egg-and-spoon, and sack race brought laughter and friendly competition. Despite unpredictable weather, spirits remained high, especially during the Bucket Challenge, where participants embraced the fun and got delightfully drenched.
The scheme concluded on a high note with a "Game of Three Halves" session, led by expert coaches from the Irish Football Association, Ulster GAA, and Ulster Rugby, promoting teamwork and inclusivity through multi-sport engagement.
The Senior Summer Scheme 2023 was an overwhelming success, providing young people with a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where they could grow, connect, and develop new skills. With fantastic participant feedback, we look forward to building on this experience and creating another unforgettable programme next year.
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JUNIOR SUMMER SCHEME
AUGUST 2023
Junior Summer Scheme 2023 was our most fun yet, with over 80 participants participating in an exciting and diverse programme of activities. This year’s scheme was carefully designed to balance creativity, education, and physical activity, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience.
Participants had the opportunity to explore their creative talents through hands-on workshops. Relatively Ceramic introduced them to clay-making, while Art Funkle guided them in designing stunning homemade stained glass pictures, allowing for artistic expression in new and exciting ways. Our young scientists were captivated by Armagh Planetarium’s interactive workshops, sparking curiosity about space and the world around them.
Physical activity remained an important focus, with AB Coaching leading various weekly sports sessions, promoting teamwork, confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. A particular highlight was a self-defence workshop led by Hebron School of Martial Arts, equipping participants with practical skills while building resilience and self-assurance. To further support mental and emotional well-being, Katie from Calm Kit delivered relaxing yoga sessions, while Katie from Action Mental Health provided engaging mindfulness activities, helping participants explore ways to manage emotions and develop focus. Additionally, Kelly from The Klean Kitchen delivered an engaging healthy eating workshop, showing participants how to prepare nutritious snacks and encouraging positive habits around food and well-being.
A major highlight of the programme was our trip to W5, where interactive science and technology exhibits provided an exciting hands-on learning experience. The scheme concluded with a cinema and bowling trip, offering a fun-filled finale celebrating a fantastic week.
A special thanks to James, Petr, Nicole, Eimear, Eve, Finn, Cadhla, Lorcan, Hannah, Kate, Alanna-May, and Louis, who played a crucial role in delivering various engaging sessions throughout the scheme. From music shaker-making to cupcake decorating and active games to food insights, their contributions ensured that every participant had a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
The Junior Summer Scheme 2024 was a huge success, offering young people a safe, supportive, and inspiring space to explore new interests, develop confidence, and build friendships. With overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants and parents alike, we look forward to growing and enhancing the programme in the years to come.
BIG BREAKFAST
One of the highlights of the year was our Big Breakfast event, which brought the community together for a morning of good food and great company. The event served as both a fundraiser and a way to engage with local families, businesses, and stakeholders. With an incredible turnout, the Big Breakfast showcased the strong support for CYC and raised £2,600 to sustain our programmes. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the warm, inclusive atmosphere and the opportunity to learn more about the work we do.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated, and volunteered to make this event a success. Your generosity and support help sustain our youth programmes, ensuring young people in our community continue to benefit from the activities and opportunities we provide. A special thank you to our sponsors, local businesses, and community members who contributed time, effort, and resources to this fantastic event.
WEE RASCALS
A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE START FOR 3-6 YEAR OLDS
The Wee Rascals programme has continued to flourish over the past year, evolving into a full-time monthly provision that provides a safe, engaging, and nurturing space for our youngest members, aged 3 to 6. Recognising the limited services available for this age group in our area, Wee Rascals has become a vital opportunity for early socialisation, creativity, and skill development, supporting both young children and their families in building connections within the community.
Each session is designed to cater to the unique developmental needs of our members, incorporating arts and crafts, sensory play, movement-based activities, and mindfulness techniques. We are especially grateful for our incredible partners who have helped bring this programme to life, including Kayleigh from Flourish, who led engaging creative sessions, and Barbara from Relax Kids NI, whose mindfulness workshops introduced young children to calming techniques and emotional expression in a fun and accessible way.
Wee Rascals continues to provide an inclusive, supportive, and enriching environment where young children can explore, play, and grow. With overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and caregivers, we are excited to expand and enhance this provision in the future, ensuring that even more young children can benefit from this playful and developmental early years experience.
JUNIOR CLUB PLAY, LEARN, GROW – TOGETHER!
Our Junior Club plays a vital role in the community, providing a welcoming and engaging space for children aged 7-11 each Friday night from September to June. Over the years, the club has continued to grow, now boasting over 100 registered children, along with many young families who enjoy the social aspect of our activities. Our dedicated volunteers have been instrumental in this success, helping members develop social and teamwork skills while ensuring a fun and inclusive environment where children can make new friends.
We actively encourage feedback from our members, involving them in the planning and running of the club. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility, ensuring that our activities reflect their interests and needs. Throughout the year, we have provided a variety of enriching experiences, including music, drama, cooking, STEM workshops, and sports activities, all designed to help children explore new interests and develop confidence.
As part of our commitment to offering unique opportunities, we were delighted to partner with the fantastic team at Circusful through funding from the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. This eight-week programme, running from April to June 2023, introduced our young people to a wide range of circus skills, including juggling, balancing, and performance techniques. The experience was a highlight for many, allowing participants to develop coordination, resilience, and self-expression in a fun and supportive setting.
Our annual trips continue to be a much-loved feature of the Junior Club. In December 2023, our Christmas trip took families to a magical performance of Aladdin, an unforgettable experience enjoyed by over 120 attendees. In March 2024, we organised an additional trip to We Are Vertigo, providing a high-energy adventure for our members.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our young volunteer team, whose regular attendance and support have been invaluable in welcoming new members, encouraging friendships, and providing extra assistance to those who need it. Their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment make a real difference, and we deeply appreciate the time and energy they contribute to making our Junior Club a thriving, inclusive, and exciting space for all.
SENIOR CLUB EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE THROUGH ADVENTURE AND GROWTH
Our Senior Club runs each Saturday night from September to June for ages 12 to 18, helping them build confidence, develop essential life skills, and enjoy time with their peers. With over 40 registered members and an average of 30 actively participating, the club continues to thrive, offering a balance of structured activities, drop-in sessions, and exciting trips throughout the year.
This year, our seniors have taken a more active role in shaping their sessions, choosing to focus on team-building, relaxation, and personal development. Recognising the pressures of school, exams, and everyday life, we’ve prioritised creating a safe, social, and stress-free space where they can unwind, connect with friends, and engage in activities that support their well-being.
We wrapped up the spring term in style, as our seniors tackled the Airtastic Lisburn Ultimate Challenges—an adrenaline-fueled day of team-based challenges, followed by some well-earned, mouthwatering food. A huge thank you to Catriona from Boys & Girls Clubs NI, whose help and support made the day an incredible experience for all involved.
Another major highlight was our Christmas trip, where our Senior Crew fully embraced the festive spirit with a day of team-building fun at Dundonald Ice Bowl and The Lost City Adventure Mini Golf. From the excitement of the ice rink to the competitive fun of minigolf, the day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments.
Beyond these big events, we’ve continued to deliver engaging and relevant workshops on topics such as internet safety, drug awareness, and mental health, equipping our members with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate challenges with confidence. Themed nights—including sports nights, movie nights, bushtucker trials, and quizzes—further support their personal growth, social skills, and sense of adventure.
The Senior Club remains a vital space where young people can develop essential life skills, form lasting friendships, and explore new opportunities. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue building on this success, offering even more opportunities for our members to learn, grow, and make memories that last a lifetime.
CASE STUDY:FROM ISOLATION TO LEADERSHIP
Child A joined Clonmore Youth Club during a particularly difficult time in their life. Their family had been dealing with long-term health challenges, and the isolation brought on by COVID-19 had only deepened their sense of disconnection. By the time they arrived at the club, Child A was withdrawn, unsure of themselves, and struggling to find their place.
Thanks to the funding we received, we were able to create a welcoming and supportive environment where young people like Child A could feel safe, included, and encouraged. At first, they engaged in small ways—participating in group activities, chatting hesitantly with peers, and slowly building trust. As time went on, their confidence grew, and they began to contribute more actively, sharing ideas and getting involved in club projects.
A turning point came when Child A discovered a passion for helping others. They transitioned from being a participant to volunteering within the club, demonstrating leadership qualities that hadn’t been visible before. Their commitment and enthusiasm led them to join the newly formed youth board, where they played an active role in decision-making and shaping the future of the club.
The transformation was not only evident within CYC but also at home. Their family, once deeply concerned about their isolation, saw a remarkable change—they were now engaged, motivated, and thriving. Child A’s journey highlights the true impact of youth work, showing how a supportive community, structured opportunities, and encouragement can empower young people to rebuild confidence, develop leadership skills, and create lasting positive change for themselves and those around them.
YOUNG VOLUNTEERS
This year has been a truly remarkable one for our dedicated young volunteers, whose hard work and enthusiasm have made a lasting impact on our community. We are incredibly proud to celebrate the commitment and dedication of Petr, Eimear, Kate, Alanna-May, Finn, Louis, Hannah, Cadhla, Nicole, Daire, Matthew, Rebecca, James, Lorcan, Mollie, and Eve for their unwavering support throughout the year, particularly during our busy summer programmes.
Their contributions have been invaluable, setting a shining example of leadership, teamwork, and community spirit. Whether supporting activities, mentoring younger members, or ensuring our programmes run smoothly, their efforts have helped create a welcoming and engaging environment for all.
To recognise their achievements, we organised a special celebration day—starting with an exciting bouldering session at Bloody Bridge, guided by Killian from Cloughmor Extreme Adventures. Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high, and the day ended on a fantastic note with a well-deserved celebratory lunch at Great Jones – Craft & Kitchen, where we reflected on the impact of their hard work and the young people they have supported throughout the year.
A special congratulations goes to Petr and Eimear, who were recognised for their exceptional dedication and awarded Young Volunteers of the Year. Their commitment and leadership have been truly inspiring, and we are grateful for everything they have done. As we look ahead, we remain incredibly fortunate to have such a passionate and hardworking team of young volunteers. Thank you all for your dedication, enthusiasm, and positive impact—we can’t wait to see what the future holds
PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS
MY BODY AND ME
In partnership with Common Youth, we delivered the My Body and Me programme, providing young people with essential education on Healthy Relationships, Puberty, Gender, Consent, Body Image, and Resilience. Over the course of four weeks, Aoife and Rebecca led engaging and informative sessions, ensuring that each topic was approached with sensitivity, empowerment, and inclusivity. The programme offered a safe space for open discussions, equipping our members with the knowledge and confidence to navigate these important aspects of life. We are incredibly grateful for their support and look forward to working with them again in the future.
MINI MEDIC TRAINING
In July, we partnered with S.R. First Response First Aid to host a Mini Medic training session for children aged 6 to 11 at Clonmore Hall. This session provided practical, hands-on training for 26 young people aged 7-11 in essential First Aid skills, including how to use a First Aid box, call emergency services, assess a casualty, perform CPR, use a defibrillator, and respond to choking incidents. Each participant received a Mini Medic booklet, worksheet, and colouring pencils, reinforcing their learning in a fun and interactive way. This initiative was a fantastic opportunity to equip young people with lifesaving skills and the confidence to respond in emergency situations.
EMBRACE THE SPOTLIGHT
The Embrace the Spotlight programme was a small, tailored initiative designed to empower young girls through confidence-building and drama. Led by our talented instructor Aoibh, the sessions provided a supportive and creative space for participants to explore self-expression, public speaking, and their perceptions of confidence. Throughout the programme, the girls engaged in a series of interactive exercises designed to help them find their voice, overcome self-doubt, and develop stage presence. The sessions culminated in participants delivering two specially crafted monologues, a powerful moment that showcased their growth in both confidence and performance skills.
This initiative, generously funded by the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to build resilience, develop communication skills, and express themselves in a way that felt both safe and inspiring. Despite being a small, tailored programme, the positive feedback from participants and their families was overwhelmingly encouraging, with many expressing how the sessions helped them feel more confident, capable, and excited to take on new challenges. We look forward to seeing the continued growth of all participants as they carry their newfound confidence beyond the stage and into their daily lives.
4-WEEK COOKING DEMONSTRATION PROGRAMME
In collaboration with Clonmore Regeneration Group, we launched a four-week interactive cooking programme designed to inspire and empower participants in the kitchen. The sessions welcomed 18 community members, offering them the chance to develop new skills, boost confidence, and explore exciting flavours in a relaxed and engaging environment.
The programme began with a focus on mastering steak preparation, where participants learned about selecting the right cuts, marinating techniques, and achieving the perfect sear. The following week, the spotlight was on barbecue cooking, as attendees explored the art of grilling, experimenting with marinades, and creating a variety of delicious sides.
Midway through the programme, participants were introduced to the fundamentals of bread making, working through the process from kneading to baking, with classic baguettes and aromatic focaccia among the highlights. The final session embraced plantbased cuisine, as attendees dived into the world of vegan cooking, preparing vibrant salads, hearty mains, and indulgent desserts that showcased the versatility and flavour of plantbased ingredients.
This programme not only enhanced culinary skills but also encouraged healthy eating habits, creativity, and community engagement. It was a fantastic success, and we look forward to hosting more food-focused sessions in the future!
THE BRIGHT PROJECT
Aimed at promoting positive physical and mental well-being, The Bright Project was a six-week programme designed to help young people explore what good mental health and a healthy lifestyle look like in practice. 17 young people aged 12-17 took part in interactive discussions, activities, and practical sessions, and participants developed a stronger awareness of self-care, resilience, and physical wellness. The programme concluded with an exciting trip to Airtastic Lisburn’s Ultimate Challenge, where participants celebrated their achievements with fun activities and a well-earned meal.
A special thank you to Catriona from Boys & Girls Clubs NI for her incredible support over the two-month programme—her insights and guidance were truly invaluable!
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ACKNOWLEDGING OUR SPONSORS, FUNDERS, AND SUPPORTERS
Clonmore Youth Club extends our sincere gratitude to the funders, businesses, and individuals who have generously supported us over the past year. Your contributions have been instrumental in ensuring the successful running of our club, events, and fundraising efforts, allowing us to continue providing valuable opportunities for young people in our community.
We are incredibly grateful to the following organisations and individuals for their funding, sponsorship, and goodwill:
Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, Autobits, BBC Children in Need, the Belton’s, BJ Mullen, Boys and Girls Clubs NI, BT Telecommunity Fund, Cappers, Cathal Dobbin, CM Plant, Crumlin Plant Sale, Education Authority Youth Service, Heatherlea Pet Shop, Irwin’s Bakery, John Foye, Keenaghan Mushrooms, Lisa Mackle, Making Moves NI (Aoibh Johnson and Sean O’Neill), McKinney Competitions, National Lottery Fund, Paul Coary, T-Met, The Community Foundation NI, UK Youth and Youth Link NI
Your generosity has allowed us to create meaningful experiences, deliver impactful programmes, and support young people’s growth and development. We truly appreciate your ongoing commitment to our club and the wider community.
Apologies to anyone we may have inadvertently missed—please know your support is valued and deeply appreciated. Thank you for being a part of our journey!
FINAL REMARKS – A YEAR OF GROWTH, IMPACT, AND COMMUNITY
As I reflect on another incredible year at Clonmore Youth Club, this annual report stands as a testament to our volunteers, staff, and members' dedication, passion, and hard work. Through our community-driven initiatives and programmes, we have continued to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people in Clonmore and beyond. Our volunteers remain the heart of our organisation, and we extend our deepest gratitude to every one of them for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. Their dedication to training, personal development, and mentorship enhances their skills and enriches the experiences we offer to our members.
We are incredibly proud to have a team of passionate and hardworking volunteers devoted to making a positive difference in the lives of young people. This year, our summer provision was a resounding success, with the Wee Rascals, Junior Summer Scheme, and Senior Summer Scheme delivering a wide range of structured, engaging, and transformative activities. These programmes provided opportunities for fun, learning, and personal growth, helping young people build confidence, social connections, and essential life skills. Expanding our Wee Rascals programme into a full-time monthly provision reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting early years development.
Our Junior and Senior Youth Clubs continue to be vital social spaces, offering a mix of drop-in sessions, workshops, and projects designed to foster inclusion, creativity, and empowerment. From My Body and Me to Embrace the Spotlight, Mini Medic Training, and our 4-Week Cooking Demonstration Programme, we have ensured that young people have access to engaging, relevant, and skill-building opportunities that support their well-being and personal growth.
Additionally, our young volunteers have continued to lead by example, with many recognised for their dedication, particularly Petr, Eimear, and Aoife, who received the Young Volunteers of the Year and Volunteer of the Year awards.
As I step into the role of Chairperson, after previously serving as Leader in Charge, I want to personally thank everyone who has contributed to Clonmore Youth Club this year. The dedication of our volunteers, staff, and committee members makes this club such a thriving and welcoming space for young people. A special thank you goes to our new Leader in Charge, Aoife, for stepping into this role with enthusiasm and vision and to our new committee members, whose fresh perspectives and dedication will help shape the future of Clonmore Youth Club.
Finally, I express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the success of Clonmore Youth Club over the past year. Your support, generosity, and belief in our mission inspire us to strive for excellence. Together, we can build a brighter future for the young people of Clonmore and beyond.
Conor Forker Chairperson, Clonmore Youth Club
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