About this project
Everyday, somebody is trying to find their place in a new community. Words of Welcome creates a safe online space to share kind words directly with those who might need them.
How it works:
- WRITE: Writers submit kind words of welcome and solidarity here.
- REVIEW: Our team reviews submissions to ensure there are no inappropriate messages being sent to our readers.
- SEND: We collate and share messages with individuals and partners. With permission, we also share a selection via our online platform to reach a wider audience and inspire others to take action.
This is a project of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Volunteer Centre. We believe in the cumulative power of small actions to make a positive impact. This project aims to make it easy to take small actions for others because “no one is too small to make a difference“. We ran a similar initiative during the pandemic: Paperchain sent kind messages to isolated people in nursing homes.
Writing tips
If you’ve hit some writers block, here are a few pointers to get you started:
- The purpose of this project is to share kind messages. You might choose to share some warm and welcoming words. For example, your message might welcome them to Ireland and speak about your hopes for a bright and safe future here. Statements of solidarity are important too. For example, your message could focus on empathising with people who have had to flee their homes and may now face a number of challenges here in Ireland.
- If you’re looking at a blank page or flashing cursor and aren’t too sure where to start… try to step into the shoes of the reader and think about what you would like to hear if you were in their circumstances. You could use one of the following prompts to get started:
- What words would you like to hear from a loved one if you were feeling isolated or alone?
- What do you love about Ireland?
- What’s your favourite free or low cost activity in your local area?
- Is there a particular quote or saying that brings you hope?
- Don’t worry too much about being original. Your own written ‘voice’ is unique and can carry a human connection to your reader. Even if you end up saying similar things as other writers, your submission is a gesture showing someone that they’re not forgotten.
- Finally, the best message is a sent message. However imperfect your message may be, it can be a ray of sunlight for someone – but only if you hit submit or put it in the post! So don’t let yourself get too bogged down; have a little think, write out your message, and share it with us.
Have questions?
Have questions about the project that aren’t answered here?
You might find the answer in our Terms and Conditions, Moderation Policy Privacy Policy or Cookies Notice. If not, please reach out to us on hello@volunteerdlr.ie with your query