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Chairman's
Address.
LHD Family community centre is a voluntary group established to provide
support to the local community. The group is based in Lakeside Park,
Highfield and Dara park estates in Newbridge. It was started in 1997,
with coffee mornings and discussions on what was needed for the three
estates. The group attending the coffee mornings decided that the area
lacked a focus, and that a centre was needed in order to promote a sense
of community spirit and to provide much needed services.
After a lot of dedication and hard work, Kildare County Council granted
the group the use of a local authority house, in September 1997, which
they refurbished to suit our requirements. Since we acquired the house
in Dara Park, we have established a Playgroup Homework Club, Action
group, and Youth Club which has over 30 members. We have run several
courses-First Aid course, Irish Pre-school Playgroups Association training
course, Teen Parenting, Women's health, and a Tenant Management course
to help co-ordinate the maintenance of the area and provide a link to
many outside agencies. We also host activities such as cooking and weigh
in mornings, as well as youth counselling.
The current committee were elected in September 1997. They have attended
management training and have identified other courses, which will equip
them with the skills needed for the long- term management of the Community
Centre. All members of the current Committee have undertaken to attend
such training, and are continuing to do so. Training is always ongoing
for Committee Members.
Joe Burke Chairman
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