This article is from page 31 of the 2008-05-06 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 31 JPG
THE Ennis Active Retirement As- sociation celebrates two decades of friendship and civic pride next week- end.
The association marks its 20th an- niversary with special event in the Eire Og clubhouse on Saturday May OF
The Ennis ARA offers people over 55 the chance to engage in educa- tional, social and cultural activities.
The primary aim is to make retire- ment an enjoyable and meaningful part of life. The association attracts members from all walks of life and holds regular talks and demonstra- tions along with classes in dance and kTEOle
Twice a year, in spring and autumn, the ARA organizes two trips abroad.
The association is supported by the Clare VEC, which provides free 10- week courses in arts and crafts dur- ing the winter months.
One of the highlights of the asso- ciation’s long history was a visit by group from the Ennis ARA to Aras an Uachtaran to meet with President Mary McAleese. Association PRO Phil Barrow explained that friend- ship has always been the cornerstone of the association.
“We seek to improve ourselves and our community and to enjoy ourselves while at the same time ap- preciating the fulfillment that comes from the companionship of our members”.
Phil said that the association has proved a helpful first point of contact for new people moving to Ennis.
“It is ideal for people who have just
moved to the town. People might come along to a meeting. Now, not all of them will stay, some will drift away. But the most important thing is that people make friends and they know we are there to help them”.
The Ennis ERA was founded in April 1988 by Fionnula Moran, who was working for Clarecare at the time.
The first meeting was held in the De Valera library Ennis and was at- tended by ten people.
Kevin O’Donoghue was elected as the association’s first chairman. Oth- ers who held the position of Chair- person over the years, were Frank Hanrahan, Michael Coleman and Kitty Begley.
The current committee is made up of Mary Meaney (Chairperson), Alice Coote (Secretary), Mary Rose
McMahon (Treasurer) and Phil Bar- row (PRO).
Over the years membership grew steadily until it topped 100. Current membership stands at 65.
Meetings take place every Tuesday in the offices of Clarecare and new members are always welcome.
Phil said “We have always got great Support over the years. We are very active organisation. All the events we organise are for people who are physically active”.
The programme of events for next Sunday’s celebrations begins with mass at 2pm followed by as night of song and dance at the Eire Og club- Le uites
Phil said “Its really a re-union of old friends that have been involved over the years. We have always tried to help each other”’.