Celebrating 30 years of Community Employment at Kare
- Kare
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
Kare and the Department of Social Protection came together on Thursday, 6 November, at the Keadeen Hotel to celebrate 30 years of Kare’s sponsorship of Community Employment (CE) programmes.
For decades, Kare has supported children and adults with intellectual disabilities across Kildare, East Offaly and West Wicklow, with Community Employment playing a key role in that work.
The celebration brought together national and local representatives, including Minister Martin Heydon, Senator Fiona O’Loughlin, representatives from the Department of Social Protection, community childcare providers, and past and present CE participants. Minister Heydon presented a 30-year commemorative plaque to Kare’s new CEO, Margaret O’Neill, and to all those involved in Kare’s two CE programmes – Childcare and Adult Supports.
The event highlighted the impact of Community Employment in helping people move from long-term unemployment to meaningful work through skills development, accredited training and hands-on experience.
Speakers included Gráinne Cassidy, Assistant Principal, and Michael O’Connor, Community Development Officer with the Department of Social Protection.
Margaret O’Neill, CEO of Kare, also addressed attendees, saying: “Community Employment aligns closely with Kare’s mission – supporting people to reach their full potential and live meaningful lives. I am very proud that Kare has played a role in supporting Community Employment over the past three decades, and I want to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed, past and present.”
They were joined by service users representing Voice for Kare, along with CE supervisors and past participants, who shared powerful stories of how the programmes have changed lives and strengthened local communities.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in organising the celebration, and to all who took part on the day – especially those who shared their personal experiences and reflections. Their contributions captured the true spirit and impact of Community Employment within Kare and the wider community.
Kare is currently recruiting CE participants for its Childcare and Adult Services programmes in Kildare, East Offaly and West Wicklow. If you have been unemployed for over 12 months and would like to apply, contact Kare on 045 448700 or email ce@kare.ie.
