Kilkenny octogenarian praised for his community endeavours

Friends and family turned out in large numbers on Friday night to celebrate the 80th birthday of Foróige’s longest serving volunteer John Sullivan.
His local club, Cuffesgrange Foróige Club organised the birthday party, which was held at the Springhill Hotel on the Waterford Road, as a mark of their deep appreciation for the huge contribution Mr Sullivan has made over the decades at local and national level.
Remarkable
Rosie O’Brien, Foróige, described Mr Sullivan as a remarkable stalwart in his local community.
“John is an amazing man, an inspiration,” she said. “He has been volunteering for Foróige continuously since 1964 but, coupled with volunteering with Foróige, John is still an active member of his community.”
Active Volunteer
John is still an active volunteer for the following groups and organisations: Kilkenny Foróige District Council, Cuffesgrange Foróige, Danesfort Parish and GAA Lotto, Danesfort Community Hall Bingo, Danesfort Field Day.
He is also on the Board of Management of Fr Campion Place, Board of Management of Churchill NS, Cuffesgrange Cemetery Committee, DCK Men’s Shed, Danesfort Parish Pastoral Committee and Danesfort Community Hall Committee.
The octogenarian is also the sacristan in Cuffesgrange Church. He is behind the illuminated Crib which lights the way for all who travel on the N76 Callan Road each Christmas.

A number of presentations were made on the night to John by a multitude of community groups. There was also plenty of music, storytelling and banter.
John is actively involved with Foróige for the past 55 years and his name is synonymous with the organisation at a local, regional and national level.
Current Foróige youth members presented John with a plaque which they made for the occasion. The plaque bore the following inscription:
“Your kindness and never ending willingness to volunteer and help people in our community is greatly appreciated. You are an inspiration to us all”.