By Rose Barrett
Seventeen-year-old St Benildus student Rían Moore was presented recently with the Maeve McLoughlin Award – for his dedicated voluntary work with Dundrum Arch Club.
Maeve McLoughlin has a special place in the hearts of the volunteers and members of the Arch Club, and is fondly remembered by Rían himself.
“Meave was quite a close friend – such a friendly person and always thinking of other people. I love the Arch Club, it’s a wonderful social outlet for all the members and there’s such a positive atmosphere there. I will continue my voluntary work there, once the lockdown is lifted,” said the Leaving Cert student.
Rían, who lives with his parents Gillian and Darrell and siblings Aislinn and Clíona in Kiltiernan has been volunteering with the club since his transition year in 2018.
“We get many students coming into volunteer with us at the Arch Club,” said Lorraine Keegan, secretary and long-time volunteer with the group. “Some are doing their Gaisce award but many, like Rían, stay on afterwards and continue supporting our work.”
“This award is dedicated to the Maeve, who was one of our members. She sadly passed in March 2020, aged 34, but what a legacy and wonderful memories she has left behind! Maeve had Down Syndrome but she never let anything get in her way of achieving her dreams especially when it came to competing in the Special Olympics. My God, you should have seen her medal collection.
“We are delighted it was presented to Rían who has shown true commitment, patience and people skills and brough great energy to Dundrum Arch Club. He just fit right in, as a volunteer and a friend to all in the group.
“No task is too difficult for him and he makes himself available for our many events when he can and always with a smile.”
Dundrum Arch Club hopes to host some outdoor picnics whilst adhering to the HSE Covid guidelines, and will make a visit to Airfield Estate later this summer.
Rian is also an avid soccer player and really enjoys history; he hopes to pursue either a teaching career at secondary level or to pursue a career in foreign affairs.
The school made the announcement of Rian’s award at the closing graduation ceremony at St Benildus College over two weeks ago.
- Airfield Estate, Dublin’s Only Urban Farm and Gardens Launch “World of Soil” Experience
- Dublin City Council unveiled a plaque to Seosamh Mac Grianna in St Anne’s Park
- Eau Thermale Avène launches its new tinted fluid SPF50+ and after-sun restorative lotion
- Dublin members of Transplant Team Ireland receives warm welcome at Australian Embassy event
- Four Dublin entries awarded at .IE Digital Town Awards 2023
