Limerick City and County Council’s Age Friendly team is pleased to announce the launch of the Limerick Older Persons Executive (OPE) Gratitude Card Project. Inspired by the “A Hug from Adam” campaign, the initiative was developed by Elizabeth Stanley, Chairperson of the Limerick Older Persons Executive.
The Gratitude Card provides a simple and respectful way for people to acknowledge and thank friends, neighbours and family members who offer informal care, support or assistance. By recognising these everyday acts of kindness, the project aims to promote positive wellbeing, strengthen community connections and help reduce social isolation among older people.
The card also serves to promote Age Friendly Limerick and raise awareness of the work of the Older Persons Executive.
The original concept behind the initiative was to create:
“a vehicle for people to express their gratitude to the friends, neighbours and family who helped them and made their lives more comfortable and their minds more at ease in the past or in the present.”
The Gratitude Card is now available and will be distributed across communities throughout Limerick City and County.
Cards are available from Limerick City and County Council’s Age Friendly team by contacting 061 557525 or email agefriendly@limerick.ie.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran commented:
“The Gratitude Card project is a simple but powerful reminder that Limerick is built on kindness, compassion and a sense of community. It's something we are very committed to in the Mayoral Programme - creating a more caring and more healthy Limerick, where older people, carers and neighbours feel valued and supported. These cards will give us all a meaningful way to recognise the small acts that often go unnoticed.”
Minister of State for Older People and Housing and Limerick TD, Kieran O’Donnell said:
“As Minister for Older People, I wish to commend Limerick Older Persons Executive and Age Friendly Limerick on the launch of the Gratitude Card. This initiative recognises the invaluable care and support given by family, friends and neighbours across Limerick, which helps make older people feel more connected and valued in their communities.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery said:
“I love this concept and I am delighted to see the Gratitude Card being rolled out in Limerick. There are many unsung heroes across the city and county, who give selflessly without seeking reward. Well done to the Older Persons Executive and all involved.”
Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly added:
“The Gratitude Card provides a simple way to acknowledge and thank those who have offered support, care or companionship. By recognising these everyday acts of kindness, the initiative also supports the wider aims of Age Friendly Limerick, strengthening community connections, promoting inclusion and helping older people feel valued, supported and more connected within their communities.”
OPE Chairperson, Elizabeth Stanley said:
“The idea for the gratitude card came from a personal appreciation of the people who have supported and helped me through difficult times. Older people, in particular, feel a need for a dignified way to express their appreciation of those who have supported them quietly through good times and bad, with everyday acts of kindness. Very often these quiet gestures go unrecognized, yet they have a positive impact on someone’s comfort, confidence and sense of connection within their community.”
About Limerick Older Persons Executive (OPE)
The Older Persons Executive (OPE) is made up of representatives from Limerick’s four Municipal Districts: Metropolitan, Adare–Rathkeale, Newcastle West, and Cappamore–Kilmallock.
The OPE:
- Provides a representative voice for older people in Limerick
- Acts as a link between local older people’s groups and the Age Friendly Alliance
- Helps guide Limerick City and County Council on issues affecting later life
- Supports the delivery of actions under the Age Friendly Strategy, including initiatives such as walkability audits
The OPE is chaired by Elizabeth Stanley, with Paddy Hyland serving as Vice Chairperson.
About Age Friendly Limerick
Limerick has been part of the World Health Organisation’s Global Network of Age Friendly Cities and Communities since 2013, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for older people.
Key milestones include:
- Publication of Limerick’s first Age Friendly Strategy (2015–2020), informed by consultation with older people and service providers
- Establishment of strong cross-agency collaboration through the Age Friendly Alliance
- Delivery of improvements across housing, public spaces, transport, access to information, and community participation
The current Age Friendly Limerick Strategy 2024–2028 builds on this progress and focuses on:
- Continued engagement with older people in shaping priorities
- Strengthening collaboration across agencies and services
- Supporting active participation, wellbeing and inclusion in later life
The Gratitude Card Project has been developed under this strategic framework.
Cards are available from Limerick City and County Council’s Age Friendly team by contacting 061 557525 or email agefriendly@limerick.ie.
If you are interested in learning more about Age Friendly Limerick, details can be found at agefriendlyireland.ie/Limerick
