A Roscommon woman who's been named 'Hero of the Year' in the National Lottery Good Causes Awards says she's delighted and surprised with the accolade.
Josie Reynolds has been volunteering with the Melting Pot in Roscommon town for the past five years.
The Community Society provides support to people who are marginalised by offering them opportunities to volunteer, or access work experience in the Melting Pot café, charity shop, or community space.
Josie was nominated for the inaugural award by a ballot among staff and board members at the Melting Pot.
Having acted as a carer for both her parents until their deaths 19 years ago, she says volunteering at the café has given her a new lease of life
"They're 19 years dead this year but I did everything for them and unfortunately when they died, sense went. I moved from home, it was Andy McDonald who brought me over here, and he said anyone who wanted to come over could work in the Café or the shop. I started working in the Café and I love it. I've met so many people".
