January 8, 2026

Community Groups Invited to Shape New Connecting Clare Communities Programme

Community groups, volunteers and local organisations across County Clare are invited to help shape a new training and mentoring programme designed around their real needs.

Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) is inviting community groups, volunteers and local organisations across County Clare to take part in the launch of the Connecting Clare Communities Training and Mentoring Programme, a new initiative designed to strengthen community organisations by responding directly to their real, on-the-ground needs.

Rather than offering a fixed set of workshops, this programme begins with a co-design process, giving community organisers the opportunity to influence the training, supports and mentoring that will be delivered throughout 2026. The focus is on ensuring the programme leads to more effective community groups and stronger local outcomes.

Have Your Say: Two Engagement Events

The launch includes two key engagement events:

  • Online Kick-Off Meeting:
    Thursday, 15 January 2026, 7:00pm (90 minutes) via Zoom
  • In-Person Co-Design Workshop:
    Saturday, 31 January 2026 (time and venue to be confirmed)

During these sessions, participants will help shape training topics such as governance and committee roles, fundraising and funding applications, volunteer recruitment and retention, digital skills, collaboration, and long-term sustainability. Feedback gathered will directly inform the design of workshops, mentoring supports and networking opportunities delivered as part of the programme.

The Connecting Clare Communities Training and Mentoring Programme will run from January to December 2026 and is open to community groups at all stages of development, from emerging initiatives to established organisations.

Register or Learn More

To register for the online Kick-Off Meeting and receive the Zoom link, email leader@cldc.ie

Connecting Clare Communities Training and Mentoring Programme Event Registration Details

For further information, contact Community Link Worker Anneli Vaughan at avaughan@cldc.ie or visit the Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) website. Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) supports community and economic development across County Clare through funding, training and advisory services.

The Connecting Clare Communities programme — funded by LEADER — expands CLDC’s ongoing work to strengthen local leadership, volunteer supports and collaborative networks.