County Clare has been awarded the title of European Volunteering Capital 2027, recognising the county’s exceptional commitment to volunteerism and community engagement.
The announcement was made by the Centre of European Volunteering (CEV) following a competitive process involving cities and regions across Europe.
Clare County Council and the Clare Volunteer Centre prepared a joint bid in June 2025. The proposal was developed through the establishment of a cross sector working group, including stakeholders from across the county. County Clare was announced as winners yesterday, Monday, December 1, 2025. The bid was supported throughout by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy, said, “This is a proud day for Clare. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our communities, and this award is a testament to their dedication and spirit. I want to congratulate everyone who played a part in achieving this honour.”
Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly, stated, “European Volunteering Capital 2027 is recognition of the work being done by our volunteers across the county on a daily basis. Clare has a long tradition of volunteerism, with the Clare Volunteer Centre playing a key role supporting the thousands of people giving of their time and skills for the betterment of their community. Clare County Council is proud to support the Volunteer Centre and this huge achievement by the Volunteer Centre personnel and council staff working in this area.”
Manager of Clare Volunteer Centre, Sharon Meaney, reflected on the transformative power of volunteering, “Volunteering changes lives. It builds resilience, fosters inclusion, and creates a sense of belonging. This award gives us a platform to showcase the incredible work happening in Clare and inspire even more people to get involved.”
Integration Support Co-ordinator, Clare County Council, Brendan Boyce, outlined plans for the year ahead, “We are planning a vibrant programme of events for 2027, including volunteer fairs, training initiatives, and international exchanges. This will be a year of celebration and growth for volunteering in Clare.”
Director of Services, Planning, Economic, Rural & Community Development, Clare County Council, Jason Murphy, highlighted the benefits of the accolade, “Being named European Volunteering Capital will shine a spotlight on Clare as a leader in community development and social inclusion. It will open doors for new partnerships and funding opportunities, ensuring that volunteering continues to thrive in every corner of the county.”
Clare now joins a distinguished list of previous European Volunteering Capitals, including Barcelona, Lisbon, London, Berlin and Gdansk. Sligo was the only Irish winner to date, in 2017.
Further details on events and initiatives for Clare’s year as European Volunteer Capital 2027 will be announced in the coming months.