Some 1,500 volunteers in Dublin who dedicate their time to community initiatives were honoured at the inaugural Unsung Hero Awards last night to mark European Neighbours Day.
Chris Dewin (23), who moved out of his family home at the age of 13 to care for his two wheelchair-bound uncles so they could remain in their home, received the overall award of Ambassador of the City.
Nominations for the awards, which are an initiative of Dublin Lord Mayor Catherine Byrne and Dublin City Council, were invited in February for people of all ages who give their time to benefiting others in Dublin communities.
In her address in City Hall
last night, the Lord Mayor said the next Government must provide significant investment for the infrastructure necessary to encourage voluntary activity.
"Political leadership for too long has concentrated on economic growth and lost sight of the need to engage with and support those who build communities," said the Lord Mayor.
Mr Dewin said he was "overjoyed" to learn of the accolade.
His involvement with his local Three Patrons Youth Club in Rathmines, in addition to organising summer camps and courses for children, was noted by neighbours and fellow volunteers.
Added to his community work, he has cared for his two uncles, who suffer from Fredreichs Ataxia, since the age of 13.
"If you wouldn't do it for family, who else would you do it for?" Mr Dewin said last night.
The selection panel consisted of RTÉ's Ronan Collins and Des Cahill, Fair City actor Tatianna Oaliankiana, the Lord Mayor Catherine Byrne, Peter Finnegan of Dublin City Council and Oisín Fanning of Smart Telecom.