Party on the Green

Kilcullen Community Action (KCA) received a Community Development grant from Kildare Co Council to run a social event in Cnoc na Gréine housing estate to foster community cohesion.



The pilot project was the first in the town to create a social opportunity whereby neighbours and residents come together to talk about their immediate environment.



It was also designed to allow KCA members listen to the views of town members who might not otherwise engage within community structures.

"The ultimate aim is to encourage new town residents to become part of a cohesive group, thus strengthening the community fabric," says KCA chairman Kieran Forde.

Kilcullen has grown from less than 2,000 people in 2002 to a current estimated 5,000 people. New residents include people from outside of the county and the country.

"Despite the increase in population, there has not been a noticeable increase in people taking part in community structures, probably a result of a large proportion of people commuting to jobs in Dublin, having young children, not enough time and so on."



This Party on the Green was about creating a social opportunity through having an event which entertained children and thus gave parents a chance to talk with each other and with KCA members. It was based around a free BBQ, with free bouncy castles and face-painting for the children.









As well as Kildare County Council, local shops such as Dunnes Stores, Tescos and Superquinn made contributions to the event.

Orla O’Neill.