Housing Executive honours Ballymena volunteer Chris Bowyer during Volunteers Week

Chris Bowyer, Chairperson of Ballykeel 1 Moving Forward Community Group, was recognised by the Housing Executive during Volunteers Week. He has been volunteering in the Ballymena area for over 20 years.  

As part of its celebrations for Volunteers Week, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive is shining a well-deserved spotlight on the exceptional efforts of community volunteers, including long-time Ballymena resident Chris Bowyer, who has dedicated more than two decades to improving life in the Ballykeel estate.

Chris, the Chairperson of Ballykeel 1 Moving Forward Community Group, helped found the group in 2015 and has been instrumental in driving a series of community initiatives since then.

These include the launch of a community café, the creation of a mental health-focused mural at the estate entrance, and most recently, the development of a new community garden.

Speaking about the recognition he has received from the Housing Executive, Chris Bowyer said:

“There is a great community spirit in this estate and there are so many people who do their bit to make it such a good place to live. Being recognised during Volunteers Week is a lovely surprise. Volunteers give up so much time to make things happen and are fantastic advocates for local people.

“Having a Good Relations Officer from the Housing Executive has been great as he doesn’t just point us toward funding. He walks alongside us through the entire process, helping us navigate applications and connecting us to networks we never knew existed. This has enabled us to deliver brilliant projects in Ballykeel like our new community garden which has brought residents of all ages together.”

Volunteers like Chris contribute thousands of hours each year to neighbourhood improvements, ranging from youth programmes and mental health projects to environmental clean-ups and support for vulnerable residents.

Jill Smyth, Head of Communities at the Housing Executive, praised the vital role volunteers play in building resilient local communities.

“Volunteers are the backbone of thriving communities across Northern Ireland. Through their dedication and passion, these individuals create more connected, resilient neighbourhoods where everyone benefits.

“The Housing Executive is proud to support these efforts through our funding programmes and the Housing Community Network, which provides essential resources, training, and networking opportunities for community groups.”

The Housing Community Network, which consists of over 500 community groups across Northern Ireland, offers training, funding guidance and grassroots support for those wishing to make a difference in their area. Residents who are already part of or in the process of forming a local group are encouraged to join.

To take part, community members can email getinvolved@nihe.gov.uk, and the Housing Executive will arrange for a Good Relations Officer to visit and help them get started.

Further information on the Housing Community Network and funding opportunities is available at nihe.gov.uk or by contacting your local Housing Executive office.