Ballina community organisation appoints new manager
Úna Morris, newly appointed Manager of Craoibhín Ballina.
Craoibhín Ballina, the community organisation dedicated to promoting social inclusion, positive wellbeing and opportunities for friendship and learning among adults in Ballina and the surrounding area, has announced the appointment of Úna Morris as its new manager.
Úna took up her position at the end of September 2026, bringing experience in community development, project organisation and the arts to her new role.
Based at St Anne's Building, Old Convent Grounds, on McDermott Street, Ballina, Craoibhín was established in 2008 through an initiative of Moy Valley Resources IRD. Formerly known as the Over 55s Club, it now welcomes adults of all ages who would like to meet new people, develop new skills and interests, or take part in community activities.
Activities at Craoibhín include visual arts, crafts, music, conversational Irish, French and Spanish groups, smart phone training, a range of exercise classes and social gatherings. Through a programme of educational, creative, recreational and social activities, Craoibhín provides opportunities for people to make friends, learn new skills and remain active and connected in their community.
Úna moved from Dublin to Killala with her family in 2000. After working for 14 years with the Western People, she returned to education at the age of 47, beginning a part-time Fine Art degree at GMIT Mayo campus. She graduated in 2019 with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art from ATU Sligo and was one of two Mayo visual artists awarded a Mayo County Council Arts Bursary and a residency at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre that year.
For the past six years, Úna worked in the Ballina constituency office of Rose Conway-Walsh TD. She has considerable experience organising and facilitating community projects, workshops and talks, and remains involved in community initiatives. She is currently participating in the development of a community garden in Killala, an initiative of the local biodiversity group and community council.
Speaking about her appointment, Úna said: “I’m delighted to take on the role of manager with Craoibhín. It’s a fantastic organisation and the staff take great care of our members, with a warm welcome for all. And I’m already enjoying collaborating with staff and our members to expand our programme and bring new opportunities for learning and socialising alongside our regular activities.
“As a charity, there is a constant need for fundraising to ensure we can provide a strong, interesting programme of events, so we were thrilled to be recently awarded a CLÁR grant of €100,000 towards a new bus for our members. Huge thanks to staff members Cathríona and Fidelma who worked with the Craoibhín board on this application - it will make a big difference to our members when we’re back on the road again!
“We invite anyone who has some time to spare or is interested in any of our activities to pop in anytime. We are open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm, and 9am to 4pm on Fridays."
She hopes to see the organisation continue to grow in strength and numbers, enhancing wellbeing, encouraging lifelong learning and helping to combat social isolation and loneliness among older people in Ballina and North Mayo.
Craoibhín Ballina is a registered charity governed by a voluntary Board of Management. Part-funded by Pobal and supported by community contributions, the organisation welcomes opportunities to collaborate with local businesses, community groups and other partners in supporting and developing its services.
New members are always welcome at Craoibhín Ballina. For information about activities,â¯becoming a member or exploring opportunities to support or collaborate with Craoibhín,â¯check out Craoibhín Ballina on Facebook or call 087-2785365.
