Carlow IWA Hosts Annual Barbecue: A Celebration of Community Spirit

The Carlow branch of the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) held its annual barbecue at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel recently, bringing together approximately 30 guests for an afternoon of food, music, and camaraderie. This longstanding tradition serves not only as a social gathering but also as a platform for promoting inclusivity and community engagement among individuals with disabilities.

The event featured a culinary offering of expertly grilled meats prepared by the hotel chefs, accompanied by fresh salads, fostering an atmosphere conducive to both conversation and connection. Committee member Ollie Dowling remarked, "The food was great, the hotel did a great job and the music was just perfect. Michael Horohan and his son Paul played and they went down really well. You could listen to them and have a chat at the same time."

The Irish Wheelchair Association, established to support individuals with mobility impairments, has been hosting this barbecue for several years. This year, Dowling took on a more active role within the organization, saying, "Jack Doyle, the chairman of the association, asked me if I was interested in getting involved with them and I wanted to do something for the community, so I said yes."

The event also featured attendees such as Marian Dunne, Pat Purcell, Peter Nolan, and Jack and Marian Doyle, who all contributed to the lively atmosphere. The success of such events underscores the importance of community support and engagement in fostering a sense of belonging for individuals with disabilities.

For more information about the services provided by the Irish Wheelchair Association, individuals are encouraged to visit their official website at www.iwa.ie. As the IWA continues its commitment to advocacy and support, events like this barbecue represent vital opportunities for connection and solidarity within the community.