Louth County Council Shortlisted for Two Awards at 2026 LAMA Awards
The Irish Homeless Street Leagues has been nominated for the Community Wellbeing Initiative, while Joe Grogan is up for Community Volunteer of the Year
Louth County Council has been nominated for two LAMA Awards.
Joe Grogan, Chairperson of the Louth Older People's Council (OPC) has been recognised in the Community Volunteer of the Year category.
Mr Grogan has been nominated for his role in advancing the Age Friendly Programme in Louth.
Since taking up the role in 2023, Mr Grogan has sought to tackle ageism and supported the development of the Louth Age Friendly Strategy 2026-2031.
He also helped establish initiatives such as the Ardee Garden Care and Repair Programme, which combats isolation among older people.
Louth was also the first county in Ireland to gain Age Friendly accreditation from the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2008.
Also up for an award is The Irish Homeless Street Leagues which has been nominated for the Community Wellbeing Initiative. The project combines weekly football sessions with health checks, workshops, and other practical supports for individuals experiencing homelessness or social disadvantage.
The project was designed to promote physical activity and wellbeing while offering literacy resources and addiction awareness talks.
It was delivered through collaboration from Dundalk Simon Community, Drogheda Homeless Aid, the FAI, the HSE Health Promotion Team, Dundalk FC, Drogheda United and The Red Door Project.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council said the nominations highlight the incredible work happening in communities across Louth.
He said both initiatives are "rooted in compassion and collaboration, ensuring that vulnerable groups and older people in Louth feel supported, valued, and included.”
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council said the nominations show how innovative partnerships can break down barriers and offer opportunities to those most in need.
"Both initiatives are examples of what can be achieved when local government works hand-in-hand with communities, and we are proud to see their impact recognised nationally,” he said.
The 2026 LAMA Awards will take place at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on Saturday, 28 February 2026.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme