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. Presentations throughout the day showed how community assistance can range from direct support for people facing hardship to programmes promoting independence and inclusion.

The work of Clondalkin Helping 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, explained how VOLA Enable works to reduce barriers faced by people with disabilities and encourage fuller participation in community life.

Silvia Fani introduced participants to the activities of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, including community projects and responses to emergencies.

Created in news euro 24 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.”

The afternoon also included a hands-on workshop introducing some of the techniques taught to Volunteer Ministers.

The gathering underlined the role that volunteers, civic organisations and religious communities can each play in supporting people facing difficult circumstances.

Read the full report on World Humanitarian Day in Dublin.