Testimonials
My child had an absolutely fantastic week at Summer Scheme with yourselves making new friends and having lots of fun. She commented on the second last day that she can’t wait for next year already!! Brilliant scheme with brilliant volunteers.
My Son has really enjoyed the Creative Arts at Uniting Communities and it has been his favourite thing of the Summer. I have really seen him come out of his shell and this is great as he heads into High School
It was great to receive a small gift from SSYCC at a difficult time. Lovely to know there are people out there that care.
As a parent of a 16 year old, like many parents I am concerned about my son’s mental health and peer pressure in today’s society. Since being involved with iRural I have noticed he has matured, become focused on his future path, gained confidence and interacts more with everyone.
iRural has provided training in Coaching/Mentoring for my son and they have had different social activities. During lockdown communication was continued with weekly Zoom calls and 1-1 discussions. I am truly thankful for the iRural commitment to these young teenagers and am proud to say my son is a member.
My son enjoyed the activities organised by iRural especially the trips and the chance to meet new people. He particularly enjoyed the trips to Jordanstown sports centre and the behind the scenes tour of Windsor Park. Many thanks to all of the team at iRural for also helping him with his CV and also allowing him the opportunity to obtain foundation coaching qualifications.
Very well organised 😁leaders care for the kids 👍great opportunity for young leaders no more needs said 😁kids are very lucky to have this on there doorsteps
“Can’t thank iRural enough for their hard work, helping bring Evolve youth group into the community. Our young people have been given a lot off great opportunities through irural getting to see different industries which might be of a interest to them to blossom there careers after school.plenty of social activities with great fun also.. Shane – Evolve Youth Leader
James joined the iRural and evolve project in Autumn 2019. He was originally apprehensive about joining as he didn’t play football or wasn’t part of any team sport. However, after his first evening he came home absolutely buzzing about the experience of meeting new people and learning about new ideas and projects. He especially enjoyed engaging with his peer group and nights out in the mini-bus at bowling, ice-skating, visiting other youth clubs and gyms and best of all the pizza!
He has really gained confidence in himself in taking part in this experience and has met lots of new friends whom he keeps in contact with via zoom calls during the covid-19 lockdown. He has learned more about technology, cross community relationships and being part of a group setting. He found the format of the zoom quizzes easily accessible and thoroughly enjoyed them.
James is very happy to have completed the level 2 OCN peer mentoring qualification and is delighted to have been given this opportunity through the iRural project.
He thoroughly enjoyed completing the coaching certificate which gave him great experience and confidence.
We are very thankful and grateful for this experience for James.
From the outset Aoife approached the idea of a Senior Youth Group with an enthusiastic and open minded attitude – although it is fair to say she couldn’t have anticipated how successful this venture would become. The formation of iRural has increased Aoife’s self-confidence, broadened her social skills and provided her with a set of qualifications and skills which will assist her in the future. Although the group was temporarily paused by the Coronavirus iRural was quickly reborn in a new on-line visual format which afforded Aoife and her peers the opportunity to communicate in a fun and safe environment. Aoife has had a truly memorable and worthwhile experience.
I was a little dubious about sending my wee girl as she has never been away without family.. have to say it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made.. she had an amazing time, hasn’t stopped saying how much she misses her “friends” and can she go back tomorrow.
Summer Scheme Parent
In recent times staff have provided alternative sessions for young people to help keep them focussed and motivated, whilst reaching out and caring for the wider community especially those who are vulnerable or isolating. iRural exceptionally warm and welcoming space, and excellent resource for everyone in the community.
I congratulate the staff and wish them every success in their continued provision of services.
Councillor Eamon Mc Neill
Being part of iRural has enabled me to become part in a new project. I have made news friends, improved my communication skills and have been taken out if my comfort zone in a more pleasant way than normal. I am always made to feel part of a team.
iRural User
From starting iRural I have gained many new things, from learning basic life skills to becoming more confident. iRural has been a great experience, and it combines fun with learning which makes it very worthwhile.
iRural User
