Edenderry's Andrea Heffernan receives Garda Youth Award for fostering sense of community

Edenderry's Andrea Heffernan has received a Garda Youth Award for fostering sense of community at Oaklands Community School.

She was one of ten Offalians to be recognised at the ceremony, which took place recently at The Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, and honoured young people from the Laois/Offaly Garda Division by presenting them with a Garda Youth Award in the company of their family and peers.

A Garda Youth Award recognises the outstanding achievement of young people between the ages of 13 and 21 years who have undertaken exceptional work in their local communities or who have shown great determination in their own lives.

The stories of the winners on the night were emotional, inspiring and remarkable. They served to demonstrate the strength of character which our young people possess and leaves us in no doubt that our future is in safe hands.

An Garda Síochána has said it is delighted to award these young people for their outstanding achievements and their contribution to their local communities. Recipients were honoured with nineteen prestigious awards in three categories.

Andrea received an Individual Award for her leadership as Chairperson of her Student Council at Oaklands Community School.

She helps shape a school culture where people look out for one another and where every voice has a chance to be heard.

Beyond school hours, Andrea gives her Saturdays to St Vincent de Paul, helping support individuals and families who need a little extra help.

She supports learning too, assisting younger students through a local ciorcal comhrá and offering help in Irish and Maths, so that confidence grows alongside grades. Andrea’s service is not occasional, it is consistent.

Fundraising efforts for Offaly Hospice and other community initiatives reflect a young person who understands that small acts count and that reliability is a form of care.