Volunteer Spotlight: Peadar Dempsey

My name is Peadar Dempsey, and I live in Co. Wexford. I’m a keen golfer and try to fit in a game whenever time allows. Alongside my role as Chairperson of the Wexford Special Olympics Club, I also serve as Chairperson of my local environmental group. Our focus is on keeping the village clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. My involvement ranges from hands-on tasks like cutting hedges to advocating with the local council for improvements such as better pathways.

What club/events do you volunteer with and what do you enjoy most?

I currently serve as Chairperson of Wexford Special Olympics Club and support both sporting and fundraising events across the Leinster region. I get so much enjoyment from spending time with the athletes whether through club activities or at event, seeing the joy and confidence they gain from doing what they love. It's equally rewarding to volunteer alongside like-minded people who are all there for the same reason, to support and celebrate the athletes.

What motivated you to get involved with Special Olympics?

I began working in 1990 with a service supporting individuals with learning disabilities, and through that role, I became involved as a volunteer with Special Olympics. When Ireland was announced as the host of the 2003 World Games, my wife Ann and I decided to travel to North Carolina to see the Games in action and truly understand what they were all about. That experience left no doubt, I wanted to be part of it.

In 2003, I proudly took on the role of MATP Coach and also became involved in the Local Host Programme in Wexford, where we welcomed the delegation from Poland. After the Games, helping to establish a local club felt like the natural next step.

In addition to volunteering with my local club and at events, I’ve continued to support Team Ireland by attending many different World Games as a spectator, tying these trips in with holidays, making it a fantastic way to cheer on the athletes and celebrate their incredible achievements on the world stage.

What has been your most memorable or rewarding volunteering moment?

Being involved as an MATP coach during the 2003 World Games and as part of the Host Town Programme, will always be high up in memorable moments, though I’m most proud to be part of the founding group of the Wexford Special Olympics Club. In those early days, we weren’t sure the club would last but it’s incredibly rewarding to see it still going strong today. A few of the original founders are still involved, alongside a dedicated team of volunteers who keep the spirit of the club alive.

What have you learned about yourself through volunteering?

As someone who naturally speaks their mind, volunteering with the athletes has taught me the value of patience and helped me develop a strong sense of tolerance, along with the ability to adapt to each athletes unique needs.

If you could describe your volunteer experience in three words, what would they be?

Fulfilling, exciting and enjoyable!