Madam, – The year 2010 has been designated the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion. As a result of our economic downturn and natural disasters, increased numbers are experiencing financial and other difficulties. Their predicament is not pleasant, but it is not without hope. Already many have experienced strong community support or what President Mary McAleese terms the meitheal spirit.
As we begin the New Year, each one of us should resolve to be involved in our communities either at individual or organisational level. The first Active Retirement Association was founded in 1978 here in Dún Laoghaire and today there are 480 local Active Retirement Associations affiliated to Active Retirement Ireland.
The organisation’s objectives of promoting self-help and independence while encouraging members to use energy, talent, skills, knowledge and experience to the benefit of each other and of the community at large were never more relevant.
Free time does not need to be idle time. – Yours, etc,