Nicky goes that extra mile

Clare Youth Service volunteer, Nicky Brennan has been presented with the Extra Mile Award, the prestigious annual accolade of Youth Work Ireland.

Nicky has been involved with Clare Youth Service for over 43 years and is the longest serving volunteer involved with young people in the county.

Over the years, he has been involved in several youth clubs in Ennis and since the early 1980’s, he has devoted countless hours to supporting hundreds of young people through the medium of music primarily.

Many young musicians and bands, even some now in their late forties, can testify to Nicky’s guidance and how he facilitates them to discover their skills and talents

CEO of Clare Youth Service, Margaret Slattery, says “Quite simply, he has made an amazing contribution to young people, to adults, to entire community and especially to the Youth Service.”
“Underpinning all of his work has been a commitment to supporting young people to take a leading role in developing the projects and clubs as well as supporting their personal and social development.

Chairperson of Clare Youth Service, Jim McMahon,acknowledged, “Nicky goes the extra mile and has done so for nearly half a century. The management team, staff, young people and board of CYS are delighted that he has been recognised nationally because his impact to the well-being and creativity of young people has been enormous.”

“He is a real believer in active youth participation and young people taking responsibility for the projects and programmes. He believes that an ounce of praise or encouragement can help a person’s confidence and ability to thrive. He is a deep listener and a passionate advocate for young people. His life demonstrates a lifelong commitment to young people and their growth.”