Kerry Community Awards - Kerry PPN

It’s that time of year again, when community and voluntary groups across Kerry are rewarded –for their hard work behind the scenes, all thanks to The Kerry Community Awards.

Since 2014 The Kerry Community Awards committee have worked to recognise and reward the work of the community and voluntary groups that work tirelessly to improve the social, economic, cultural and environmental quality of life in our local communities.

Last year’s overall winner, Foodshare Kerry, with over 40 volunteers, are on a mission to alleviate food poverty and food waste. They work with community groups who deal directly with minority groups, families, homeless centres and groups such as St Vincent de Paul to provide surplus food to registered organisations. The award was a powerful acknowledgment of all the unseen effort the team put in to running their food redistribution hub.

Kerry Community Awards are open to all community and voluntary groups based in the county, regardless of size or location.

If your group assists, supports or enriches your community in some way, either socially or economically we would love to see you apply.

Who can apply?

The Kerry Community Awards are open to all community, voluntary and non-profit groups / organisations based in County Kerry regardless of size.
Groups must be current members of Kerry Public Participation Network (PPN). For further information on joining Kerry PPN visit www.kerryppn.ie.
The project / initiative submitted for judging must be already in operation or completed within the last twelve months.
The project / initiative must benefit a local community in Kerry.
Applications must be accurate and truthful.
Only one entry per group will be accepted.
Closing date for applications: 10th July 2026

How do I enter?

Complete the online application form here:

Kerry Community Awards 2026 Application Form

Foirm Iarratais Ghradaim Pobail Chiarraí 2026

Hard copies can be requested by emailing kerrycommunityawards@kerrycoco.ie or contacting 066 7183686.

Ensure all required sections of the form are completed.
Submit the form by the closing date, 10th July. Late applications will not be accepted
Links to photos, videos, webpages and social media to support the application are welcomed. Do not send original materials as they may not be returned.

What are the Award Categories?

Applicants must select one category only:

Climate Action & Biodiversity: Projects whose innovation and commitment is reducing the impact of climate change, nurturing biodiversity or improving and protecting the environment in the community.
Community Youth: Projects that make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of children and young people in the local community.
Inclusive Community: Projects that reduce social exclusion and improve the quality of life, particularly for marginalised or vulnerable members of the community.
Community Wellbeing: Projects that promote healthy lifestyles and strong community connections, creating positive environments for physical, social and mental wellbeing.
Arts, Culture and Heritage: Projects that enhance the community by conserving, protecting and promoting Arts, Culture and Heritage through collective activities e.g. Drama, Music, Literature, Festivals, Conservation & Heritage works.
Age Friendly Community: Projects that make your community a great place in which to grow old.
Community Achievement: Unique and outstanding projects that improve the local community, celebrate innovation, resourcefulness and volunteering.

How are the awards judged?

Applications are reviewed by an independent judging panel.
Judges will focus on:

Impact – What difference has been made?
Community Benefit – Who has benefited and how?
Engagement – Level of community involvement
Outcomes – Clear results or achievements

Shortlisted applicants may be contacted by judges.
Judges may request a visit or further information.
A selection of finalists will be publicly announced.

Advice from the judges

Keep your answers clear and to the point.
Avoid jargon – write in plain language.
Focus on the results and the impact of your project on your local community, not just the activities.
Include real life examples or numbers where possible.
Stick to the suggested word limits.
Make sure you have completed all sections of the form.
Provide supporting information such as photos and videos where possible.