ACR volunteer in running for national award

An Athlone Community Radio contributor is the running for a major volunteer award.

Ed Devery, who comes from nearby Ferbane, has been shortlisted for the Volunteer of the Year award in the Health & Wellbeing category of the Volunteer Ireland Awards.

A dedicated volunteer, Ed has been making steady progress at the station, producing and presenting a monthly mindfulness slot on the popular Athlone Today current affairs programme. It's entitled 'Monthly Positivity' on Mondays at 2.10pm.

His interest in mindfulness stems from his own journey to recovery from mental health difficulties. As well as taking part in a psychiatric support program, Ed has found solace in various activities in Athlone, including his involvement with Athlone Community Radio, Athlone Training Centre, Athlone National Learning Network, and Féile na Sionainne. Through these involvements, Ed has gained courage, confidence, and self-esteem.

Athlone Community Radio nominated Ed for the Volunteer Ireland Award, recognising his personal progress and contribution to the station's positive mental health slot. Last week, the exciting news of his inclusion on the shortlist for the Health And Wellbeing Category was confirmed.

Ed is humbled by the honour and expressed his gratitude to Birr/Banagher Mental Health Centre, Athlone National Learning Network, Athlone Training Centre, and Athlone Community Radio for their unwavering support. He also extended his thanks to his friends for their continuous encouragement.

Apart from his involvement in the radio community, Ed is an avid poet, and his remarkable talent has garnered attention from renowned figures such as President Michael D Higgins, poet Rita Ann Higgins, author and former Minister Mary O'Rourke, author Michael Harding, and authors Fr Brian D'Arcy and Fr Tony Flannery. His poems have been featured in various books, magazines, and publications, and he wholeheartedly recommends poetry as a therapeutic outlet.

Music holds a significant place in Ed's life, particularly Irish traditional music. Influenced by his late mother's side of the family, he plays percussion instruments such as the bodhran and bones, and has had the privilege to perform alongside Johnny 'Ringo' McDonagh, a former member of renowned bands De Danann and Arcady. Like poetry, music has become another form of therapy for Ed.

His other hobbies and interests, including table quizzes, Irish history, sports (particularly hurling and football), current affairs, reading, and creative writing. However, mindfulness holds a special place for him, as it has become a crucial tool in managing anxiety and stress. By embracing the present moment and focusing on each day's journey, Ed has found strength and solace in living in the now.

Ed is thrilled to be shortlisted and grateful for the recognition of his contributions. Athlone Community Radio congratulated Ed Devery on this significant achievement and wishes him the best of luck at the awards ceremony.

Winners will be announced at the Volunteer Ireland Awards ceremony on December 2.