Lidia receives recognition for volunteer work

Lidia receives recognition for volunteer work

30 September 2020

A PUPIL from Assumption Grammar School in Ballynahinch has selected from hundreds of youth volunteers across Ireland to be recognised for her exemplary work in the community.

Lidia Ballocchi was one of 20 exceptional young people to be honoured at the Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards ceremony last week. 

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the awards celebration was held virtually.  

Lidia, a sixth year student, began volunteering at a local St Vincent De Paul charity shop, where she spent her weekends volunteering giving her time and learning crucial life lessons along the way. 

Volunteering in such an environment, Lidia was a helping hand and an ear to listen for those who would visit the shop.

She believes it has had a massive positive impact on her own life.

Lidia then began volunteering at a dementia ward in the Downe Hospital, which sparked her interest in going to the shrine at Knock in Co Mayo in order to help elderly pilgrims on their journeys. 

These experiences also impacted Lidia’s decision to fundraise for Saphara India 2018 and spend three weeks in India, where she supported the education of young women from impoverished areas.

Lidia believes these experiences are the reason she is the person that she is today. 

“Lidia is an amazing student and inspiring role model in her local community,” said Naomi Hegarty, vice president of Risk and Privacy, Pramerica Systems Ireland and executive sponsor for the Pramerica Spirit of Community Awards. 

“All of our 2020 finalists carry out exceptional volunteer work with the ultimate goal of making the lives better of those in need. It’s great to see their achievements being celebrated and I look forward to hearing about their continued good work in the future.”