Pat Rutherford highlights benefits of volunteerism

“There’s an awful lot of happiness to be derived at making other people happy.”

Clare European Volunteering Capital 2027 Ambassador Pat Rutherford joined Alan Morrissey on Clare FM’s Morning Focus today to share his experiences of volunteering and the personal rewards it brings.

Originally from Donegal, Pat began volunteering with Project Children in the 1980s and has been involved with Special Olympics since 2010, coaching athletics and golf in Ennis. In 2015, he and athlete Paul Kirrane represented Ireland at the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles, winning bronze medals.

For Pat, volunteering is about more than giving your time. It builds kindness, trust and connection, while bringing its own rewards to those who get involved.

As Clare prepares for its year as European Volunteering Capital 2027, Pat’s story is a reminder of the difference volunteers make to the lives of others and the happiness they gain in return.