Youth Work Ireland Midlands, formerly known as Midlands Regional Youth Service Ltd (MRYS) was formally incorporated in 1998; however the youth service has been around since the 1960’s. Since the incorporation, the organisation has developed its programme of work to cover counties Westmeath and Offaly.

 

As the organisation developed over the years, so too did the provision of services and supporting programmes. 

The core purpose of the organisation is the social, personal and educational development of young people enabling them to take greater control over their lives by being given opportunities to make choices, take decisions and exercise responsibility.

 

Timeline:

 

1980’s

MRYS receiving funding from the National Lottery through the Dept. of Education towards the provision of youth work services for disadvantaged young people.

 

1990’s

Establishment of a Board of Management in line with governance from original Advisory group.

 

1998

Formally incorporated as Midlands Regional Youth Service Ltd.

 

1999

Sponsorship of FÁS Community Employment Schemes supporting Counties Westmeath and Offaly

 

By 2000

Development and Implementation of Garda Youth Diversion Projects (Now operating in Edenderry, Mullingar, Tullamore and Athlone)

 

2001

Established our Youth Information Service

 

2007

Achievement of our 1st Quality Standard with Youth Work Ireland

 

2008

Achievement of Health Quality Mark, NYCI Youth Health Programme

 

2013

Development of 2 Youth Cafes in Westmeath (Mullingar) and Offaly (Edenderry)

 

2015

Relaunch of the organisation as Youth Work Ireland Midlands and introduction of Strategic Plan 2014 - 2017