Localise Empowers Over 3,200 Young Volunteers Across Ireland in 2024

Localise Youth Volunteering has published its 2024 Annual Report, revealing that more than 3,200 young people across Ireland took part in youth volunteering programmes last year, contributing over 45,000 hours of service to their local communities.

From tackling social isolation to advancing climate action, the report highlights how youth volunteering is becoming a driving force for positive change in Ireland.

MyVP: Ireland’s National Youth Volunteering Portfolio

A major highlight of 2024 was the continued development of MyVP – the National Youth Volunteering Portfolio. This innovative platform, supported by the Public Service Innovation Fund and developed with Dublin City University, enables young people to:

• Record and reflect on their volunteering journey.
• Showcase skills and leadership gained through service.
• Receive recognition in education and career pathways.

By aligning with the Government’s Life Events Digital Wallet, MyVP is transforming how volunteer contributions are acknowledged in Ireland.

Voices of Leadership

Chairperson Dr. Cora O’Farrell praised the resilience and commitment of Ireland’s youth:

“Our mission, to awaken a culture of volunteerism among Ireland’s youth, has never felt more relevant. With unity, integrity, and a steadfast belief in the power of youth, Localise will continue to grow into a movement that transforms lives and communities across Ireland.”

Director Derek Cleary added:

“Behind every statistic are the stories of young people choosing compassion and courage. Whether tackling isolation among the elderly, addressing climate challenges, or supporting migrant integration, youth volunteering is a powerful force for unity and hope.”

2024 Highlights from Localise Youth Volunteering

• 3,286 young people engaged in 132 youth volunteering projects, supported by 313 adult mentors.
• Expansion of the Climate Justice Programme, giving young people tools to take meaningful climate action.
• Localise became the first youth organisation in Ireland to receive the Public Service Innovation Fund.
• Launch of recognition events, including the Ballyrunners ceremony at DCU to celebrate young volunteers.
• Four Erasmus+ projects, including Joyful Journeys, which connected young volunteers with older people in Dublin’s inner city.

Looking Ahead: A Bold Vision for 2033

Localise has set an ambitious goal of engaging 222,000 young people in Ireland by 2033. Future plans include:

• Expanding access to youth volunteering across disadvantaged and diverse communities.
• Scaling up the MyVP digital platform nationwide.
• Building stronger partnerships with schools, community organisations, and government bodies.
• Ensuring all young people in Ireland have the opportunity to volunteer and be recognised for their contributions.

Treasurer Peter Foran confirmed the organisation remains financially strong and committed to transparency:

“Every euro invested in Localise is maximised to empower young people and support their role as changemakers.”

About Localise Youth Volunteering

Localise is a national youth volunteering organisation in Ireland dedicated to empowering young people through service, leadership, and community engagement. Its programmes promote inclusion, resilience, and civic responsibility, enabling youth to become active citizens and future leaders.

The full Localise 2024 Annual Report is available at www.localise.ie