Dublin marked World Humanitarian Day with a gathering focused on practical community service and support for people in difficult circumstances.

The event took place at the Church of Scientology & Community Centre of Dublin. Rather than concentrating on a single form of aid, the programme reflected the variety of ways local groups respond to social needs. The work of Clondalkin Helping news eugene Homeless was outlined by Mayor of South Dublin Cllr. Francis Timmons, drawing attention to community-based responses to homelessness and financial hardship. Viktor Kozyrev, co-founder of VOLA Enable, presented programmes designed to improve inclusion and quality of life for people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups. Silvia Fani introduced participants to the activities of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, including community projects and responses to emergencies. Created in the 1970s by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, the Volunteer Ministers programme is centred on providing practical help in everyday difficulties and times of crisis. Its motto is “Something Can Be Done About It.” Participants concluded part of the programme with a practical workshop demonstrating methods associated with Volunteer Minister training. Taken together, the presentations illustrated how humanitarian work can be carried out by organisations with very different areas of expertise. Read the full report on World Humanitarian Day in Dublin.