St. Theresa's Girl Guides Passage West is the April winner of The Community Spirit Award

St. Theresa's Girl Guides Passage West has been named the recipient of The Cork International Hotel Community Spirit Award, presented in association with The Carrigdhoun Newspaper. This recognition follows a significant year for the group, which celebrated its golden anniversary in March.

With 80 youth members across various age groups, from Signets to Brigíns and Rangers, St. Theresa's Girl Guides are guided by dedicated local voluntary leaders. They gather weekly at Fr. Collins Hall in Passage West, engaging in a diverse range of activities, including arts and crafts, rope work, and the development of essential life skills.

Norma Lombard, a leader who began her journey as a Girl Guide herself, emphasised the core mission of the organisation that is building confidence, offering a secure environment, and building lasting friendships among its members.

Norma Lombard, Leader of the St. Theresa's Catholic Girl Guides of Ireland Troop at Passage West, who received the Cork International Hotel / Carrigdhoun Newspaper Community Spirit Award from Edel Kavanagh, Hotel Deputy Manager. Included from left, at rear, Vincent O'Donovan, Managing Editor, Carrigdhoun Newspaper ; Cllr. Eoghan Fahy and Cllr. Una McCarthy. Included in front, are Girl Guides, Freya O'Connell ; Zara Foley ; Evie O'Sullivan and Meabh O'Connor.

Community engagement is also a cornerstone of their activities. St. Theresa’s Girl Guides have actively participated in numerous charity fundraisers. Their initiatives, such as coffee mornings, Halloween parties, walks, and cycles, have supported various organisations, including the PACE Centre, Marymount, and Homeless Help and Support Cork.

Furthermore, St. Theresa's Girl Guides passionately promotes their local area, Passage West. They instil a love for the community in their members by teaching them about nature and biodiversity, and frequently contribute to spring and coastal clean-ups, helping to maintain their surroundings as welcoming and aesthetically pleasing for everyone to enjoy.

Managing Director of The Carrigdhoun Newspaper, Vincent O’Donovan, said “Congratulations to the group on achieving such a marvellous milestone. It is great to see the commitment and hard work of all the guide leaders and volunteers. Organisations like these are important to every community to inspire our young people.”

"Eoghan Murphy, General Manager of Cork International Hotel said "Norma and St. Theresa's Girl Guides are indicitive of what makes these awards special. We are delighted to honor their contributions to the people of Passage. Their dedication to enriching the lives of those around them is remarkable. I wish Norma, the volunteers and the girl guides well in their future endeavours".