Community projects
Craoibhín Ballina
Craoibhín Ballina is a socially inclusive project that supports the ageing population of the Ballina district and is located in St Anne’s Building, old St Mary’s Secondary School and old Convent building, McDermott St, Ballina F26 C9E8.
Established in 2008 through the initiative of Moy Valley Resources IRD, Craoibhín, meaning “little branch”, was formerly known as the Over 55s Club but is now open to any adult who would like to make a friend in the community or learn a new skill.
The organisation’s ethos promotes positive wellbeing and social inclusion to all adults in a happy, safe, and welcoming environment. It aims to do so by encouraging people to participate in social activities that promote a fulfilled healthy lifestyle.
Craoibhin operates as a signposting service in the community by linking in with other government agencies in the social care realm. Craoibhín also reaches out to people who are unable to attend the centre by providing a community bus, shopping transport services and household maintenance with the Lend a Hand Programme.
The centre offers a large choice of activities including:
- Art history and painting Classes
- Monday morning mindful yoga.
- Traditional Irish music classes.
- Boccia
- Knitting and Crochet
- Bingo
- Line Dancing
- Irish Conversation
- French Conversation
- Spanish Conversation
- Mandarin Chinese Conversation
- Book club
- Gardening club
- Craft classes
- Internet Training
- Soccer
- Walking group
- Coffee and music mornings
- Tea dances
- Monthly tours
A registered charity, Craoibhín is part funded by Pobal and is supported by community contributions.
Craoibhín Ballina is governed by a voluntary board of management and currently employs two full time staff, three part time staff, six community employment and one TUS staff members.
The centre’s manager is currently being recruited following the recent post vacancy.
We will be excited to introduce you to our new manager once he/she has been appointed.
If you wish to learn more, or to join Craoibhín Ballina, please get in touch!
WHO CAN HELP?
The Craoibhín Team
To be announced: Craoibhín Manager
Please visit this section to be introduced to the new Craoibhín Ballina Manager shortly. The recruitment process for this postion in currently underway and we look forward to meeting him/her soon.