Ballinode Community Centre has been named the winner of the Pride of Place 2026 Award in the 300-1,000 Population Category, a prestigious national recognition celebrating communities that work together to create vibrant, inclusive and sustainable places to live.
The award is a tremendous achievement for the Ballinode community and reflects the dedication, vision and hard work of the many volunteers, community groups and residents who have contributed to the development and success of the Community Centre and the wider village over many years.
The judges recognised the strong sense of community pride evident in Ballinode, highlighting the central role the Community Centre plays in bringing people together, supporting local activities and providing opportunities for people of all ages to participate in community life. The Centre has become a focal point for social, recreational, educational and cultural activities and continues to evolve to meet the needs of the community.
Chairperson of Ballinode Community Centre, Elaine Coyle said:
“This award belongs to the entire Ballinode community. It is recognition of the commitment, energy and community spirit shown by all our volunteers past and present. We are incredibly proud of this award and grateful to everyone who contributed their time to prepare for the Pride of Place judges visit. This award reflects the strength of our community and our shared determination to make Ballinode a welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.”
Monaghan County Council congratulated Ballinode Community Centre on this significant achievement.
Cathaoirleach Cllr. Aidan Campbell said:
“Winning a Pride of Place Award is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the dedication of the people of Ballinode. The community has demonstrated what can be achieved when people work together with a shared vision. Ballinode Community Centre is at the heart of community life and this national recognition is richly deserved. I would also like to acknowledge and thank Leona Keenan, Pride of Place Liaison Officer and Nicola Payne Director of Services with Monaghan County Council, for working closely with the participating communities and supporting them in the preparations for the judges’ visits and national awards”.
Chief Executive Robert Burns said:
“Monaghan County Council is proud to support and work alongside communities such as Ballinode that make our county a great place to live, work and visit. The volunteers and community leaders behind Ballinode Community Centre have created a welcoming and vibrant centre that plays a central role in supporting the quality of life and wellbeing for those who live there. Monaghan County Council is delighted to see their efforts recognised at a national level and extends its sincere congratulations to everyone involved.
While Ballinode Community Centre brought home the national award, I also want to congratulate Ulster Canal Stores and Lisdoonan Development Association on their outstanding achievements. Although they were not successful in securing a national award on this occasion, they represented their communities with great pride and distinction. Their presentations showcased the remarkable volunteerism, community spirit and commitment that exists within their areas. They should be immensely proud of what they have achieved and of the positive contribution they continue to make to community life across County Monaghan”
The Pride of Place Awards, organised by Co-operation Ireland in partnership with local authorities across Ireland, celebrate communities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable and thriving places. The awards recognise the positive impact that community-led initiatives have on enhancing quality of life and strengthening community wellbeing.
This latest success places Ballinode among the leading community organisations in Ireland and highlights the important role that local volunteers play in building stronger, more connected communities.