Community room opened by Cork Deaf Association

An inclusive space featuring low-echo acoustics as well as being a calm, welcoming atmosphere has just opened on Leeside.

The Cork Deaf Association (CDA) new community room is a space shaped by DeafSpace Design Principles and includes contrasting colour palettes for clear visibility across all skin tones; an accessible stage and adjustable lighting.

The new room in the heart of Cork city hosted a volunteer appreciation event to shine a light on the vital role of CDA volunteers during National Volunteering Week.

National Volunteering Week runs from 19-25 May and celebrates a legacy of volunteerism. This year’s theme of Building Community Together resonates deeply with CDA’s story.

Founded by volunteers in 1966, the association continues to rely on the dedication and partnership of their vibrant community of volunteers to deliver essential support and services for deaf and hard of hearing people in Cork.

Catherine Landers, who has volunteered at CDA for 24 years, is among those being honoured. She volunteers with the Cork Deaf Folks Group and CDA children’s events and activities.

Catherine says it means a lot to her to support the deaf community and has seen a lot of changes during the years. “I enjoy volunteering because it is important to support the Folks Group. Isolation and loneliness is a risk for them. It is a bittersweet memory to look back, as some of the Folks members have passed away over the years. I am happy to be still involved.”

Úna Lyons, another long-time volunteer, has supported fundraising efforts for nearly 20 years. “CDA is a local charity that has touched many people’s lives and hearts at a personal/family level for nearly 60 years. Those who donate often share about a deaf family member and help received through CDA. If you’re thinking about it, take the next step and do it! Follow the feeling to help. An hour or two of your time is well spent.”

Gerrie O’Grady, Executive Manager at the Cork Deaf Association, said: “People like Catherine and Úna serve the community with such pride and passion. Our volunteers are very special to us. Volunteering can also be very personally rewarding. It’s a wonderful way for a person to meaningfully connect with their communities. It can lead to new learning, new friendships and social opportunities.”