Fermanagh Voluntary Association of the Disabled: A Legacy of Generosity and Community Spirit

After 58 years of dedicated service to the people of Fermanagh, the Fermanagh Voluntary Association of the Disabled (FVAD) is closing its doors, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to benefit the community. Founded in 1966 to address a significant gap in services for local people with disabilities, FVAD has been a pillar of support and camaraderie, creating spaces for social, recreational, and educational activities while offering vital welfare advice and skills development.

Over the years, FVAD became much more than just a charity—it became a vibrant, membership-driven organisation deeply rooted in the Fermanagh community. Through the tireless work of volunteers and the generous support of local people, FVAD was able to acquire its own centre on Mill Street and even its own minibus, allowing them to expand their services and activities, both during the day and in the evening. From community horticulture projects to the innovative ‘Community Repaint Fermanagh’ initiative, FVAD was always at the forefront of bringing people together and creating opportunities for learning, connection, and fun. Their famous social events and outings will be remembered fondly by many.

 

 

 

The charity never relied on statutory funding, instead leaning on the goodwill of the Fermanagh community, which consistently supported its fundraising efforts year after year. However, as times changed, so did the needs of the charity. A combination of technological advancements, a decline in volunteering, and the onset of COVID-19 led to a major turnover of volunteers, prompting the trustees to make the difficult decision to close the charity.

Freddie McCordick, one of the founding members, attended the final Trustee meeting in September 2024. “Elsie Boyd, my social worker at the time brought me to the first meeting. We had some wonderful times and met great people.”

As FVAD closes its doors, it is delighted to announce the creation of the FVAD Legacy Fund in partnership with the Fermanagh Trust. This fund will carry on the charity’s spirit by providing grant aid for social and recreational activities for disability groups in Fermanagh.

 

 

 

Lesley Fagan, a Trustee of FVAD, expressed her pride in the legacy left behind: "While it is bittersweet to close the charity, we take immense pride in knowing that our work over the past 58 years will live on through the FVAD Legacy Fund. Our goal has always been to empower individuals and bring the community together, and this fund will ensure that mission continues."

Ernie Fisher, Chairman of the Fermanagh Trust, shared his thoughts on this lasting contribution: "We are honoured to partner with FVAD in creating this legacy fund. FVAD has made an incredible impact in our community, and this fund will allow their work to continue, supporting activities that bring joy, connection, and empowerment to people with disabilities for many years to come."

David Brown, key FVAD volunteer added “It’s now time to move on and this Fund will ensure many others can access opportunities in the coming years. We are very excited to see how the Fund will support people with disabilities and we wish the Fermanagh Trust every best wishes with their work.”

While FVAD may be closing its doors, the spirit of its work will live on, ensuring that the charity’s mission of empowerment, inclusion, and community support continues to benefit the people of Fermanagh for generations to come. The new Fund will be opening soon.