Thousands of Volunteers, Hundreds of Thousands of Hours, Thousands of Lives Changed

ALONE marks National Volunteering Week by thanking the volunteers whose time and practical support help older people feel less alone. 

ALONE, the national organisation supporting older people to age happily at home or in the communities they choose, is marking National Volunteering Week by paying heartfelt thanks to the thousands of volunteers across Ireland whose time make this possible. 

Volunteers are at the heart of ALONE’s work, providing friendship, reassurance and practical assistance to older people who may be experiencing loneliness, isolation or the difficulties that can accompany ageing. In 2025, ALONE supported over 46,500 older people across its services, with volunteers contributing more than 270,000 hours of support, valued at €8.5 million. 

Volunteering also brings important benefits for people who volunteer. Alongside supporting older people, it helps build stronger communities and offers a meaningful way to stay connected, engaged and well through positive social connection and shared purpose. 

Speaking during National Volunteering Week, Seán Moynihan, CEO of ALONE, said: 

“It’s impossible to put into words what our volunteers mean to the older people we support. They give their time so generously – week after week – not for recognition, but because they care. Whether it’s a phone call, a visit, or helping with the small practical jobs that can become overwhelming, their support makes a real difference. For many older people, it’s the highlight of their week and often the difference between feeling forgotten and feeling remembered. On behalf of everyone at ALONE, and especially the older people whose lives are warmer and more connected because of you, I want to say a heartfelt thank you. What you do truly matters.” 

Last year, over 11,000 volunteers were engaged with ALONE, many of whom described their experience as deeply rewarding. One ALONE volunteer described the experience as “giving a small amount of time that ends up meaning a great deal – knowing someone is waiting for your call, and that it genuinely brightens their day.”  For many older people, a volunteer is the one consistent, trusted human connection they can rely on each week. 

ALONE is represented on the National Steering Committee for International Volunteer Year 2026, a UN‑designated global year celebrating the contribution of volunteers worldwide. This reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to supporting and championing the vital role volunteers play in society. 

National Volunteering Week runs from 18–24 May. As increasing numbers of older people experience loneliness and isolation, community volunteering continues to play a vital role in helping people age well at home. Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering with ALONE can visit www.alone.ie/volunteer or call ALONE’s National Support and Referral Line, open 8am to 8pm 365 days a year, on 0818 222 024.