Completed Community Projects
Sheltered Housing
One of the most significant projects to be undertaken and completed by Kilcullen Lions was the sheltered housing in St Brigids Grove in the town. Dave Prendergast, Colm Murray and Jim Kiely were instrumental in the completion of the four homes which were opened by Minister for Finance Charlie McCreevy on June 11, 2001. Planned in conjunction with KCC and Health Board, the houses, comprising kitchen, sitting room, bathroom & bedroom, are suitable for 1 or 2 people.The rent is kept low and the housing is provided on a lease basis to four local residents of Kilcullen. Ongoing support is provided to residents through building maintenance and visits.
KARE Centre
A KARE centre was enabled to be completed in the Cross and Passion College grounds due to great fundraising work by the Lions in 2004 through a Golf Classic which resulted in a €100,000 donation.
Sli na Slainte Walking Route
The Sli na Slainte walk was designed around the environs of Kilcullen with the help of the Lions Club in the late 1990's. About 3kms long, it takes in the picturesque Dunlavin road and the rural McGarrys lane and Nicholastown before returning to Kilcullen via the Athy road.
Adapted vehicle
We provided a specially adapted vehicle for 2 young men suffering from Friedrichs Ataxia.
Their mother was finding it more difficult to transport them – Lions Club funded a special vehicle, which made life easier and enhanced the life of the young men. A Fashion Show was organised to raise funds for this venture.
Defibrilator
The idea, funds and support for a public defibrilator for the town were provided by Lions Club. It is situated at the Credit Union in case of a medical emergency.
Ongoing Community Projects
Solas Youth Café: The Lions Club leased and refurbished the facilities at the Tennis Club in Kilcullen with the help of Leader funding. Aimed at 14 to 18 year old young people to meet and take part in activities each Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm.Volunteers from the Lions Club and the general community act as a presence when the Cafe is open. There are 2 paid facilitators one of whom is present every Wednesday night.
Asist course: An International Lions Club initiative aimed at those working with young people in particular to combat suicide by identifying possible early signs of vulnerability. Lions club organise the facility and training in the KARE centre in Kilcullen. The course is usually two days long and run over a weekend with 12 places on each course. These courses have been running since 2010 and are funded by the Lions Club.
Senior Citizens Social Evening: An annual party with food, drink, music and activities provided by Lions Club members for local senior citizens held in May. About 100 people usually attend and it has been held in the Parish Centre since 2008.
Tacade
Helping to educate young people about the dangers of drink through a peer programme.
This programme is run in CPC school in Kilcullen for transition year students.
