Topics related to Ballymena, Northern Ireland's social life, are the focus of this part of our guide.
Ballymena is home to an active community of artisans who contribute to the cultural fabric of the town. Other people who have historically contributed to the development and well-being of the community are also remembered, some of whom are memorialized through statues, monuments, or commemorative plaques.
Ballymena hosts several social organisations and associations catering to various interests and causes. One of these is the Ballymena Community Forum, a key player, bringing together different community groups to address local issues and promote social cohesion. Charitable organisations like the Ballymena Rotary Club and the Lions Club also have a place, providing social interactions and networking to their members while contributing to humanitarian efforts locally and internationally. These associations provide a platform for residents to engage in volunteer work.
Active youth clubs in Ballymena offer young people an avenue to develop skills, develop friendships, and contribute to the community. Among these is the 5th Ballymena Scout Group, which is one of the oldest and most active in the area, although it is not the only scouting organisation in town. Others include, but may not be limited to, the 3rd Ballymena (West Church) Scout Group and the 7th Ballymena (All Saints) Scout Group. These and other youth clubs organize community service projects, enabling young members to make a positive impact in their town while participating in enjoyable activities.
Websites highlighting Ballymena artisans (cartoonists, illustrators, musicians, painters, sculptors), along with memorial websites, pet pages, personal pages of residents, and those of local organisations and associations, are appropriate topics for this category, as are websites created to spotlight local issues or concerns.
Recommended Resources
3rd Ballymena (West Church) Scout Group
The 3rd Ballymena Scout Group is part of the West Church Presbyterian Ballymena, Northern Ireland community. As part of the larger Scouting movement, the group offers opportunities for children and young people to engage with their peers and learn new skills in a safe environment shaped by Biblical truths. The Scouts and Girls's Brigade programs are designed to encourage growth and development in a supportive setting. Its history, age groups, and contacts are provided.
http://westchurchscouts.org.uk/
5th Ballymena (St. Columba's) Scout Group
Providing Scouting experiences in the Ballymena area for over forty years, the 5th Ballymena Scout Group offers programs for young people aged 4 to 18 designed to equip them with valuable life skills. Based at St. Columba's Church of Ireland, the group does camping, hiking, canoeing, and other outdoor activities, as well as learning first aid, cooking, navigation, and other skills and participating in local community events. Schedules, contacts, and photos are included.
http://5thballymenascoutgroup.org.uk/
Established in 1976, the Antrim Coast Lions Club is a community-focused organisation in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. The Lions Club is part of the larger Lions International organisation, and is known for its annual Charity Carnival, which raises money for various charitable causes and its Charity Shop, which supports local and international projects, all of which are introduced on its website, along with membership information, schedules, and contact data.
https://www.antrimcoastlionsclub.org/
Founded after World War II, the Service Club Ballymena has been a place for camaraderie, support, and social engagement for veterans, serving personnel, and their families for over half a century. The club offers a variety of amenities and activities, including a bar, dining facilities, recreational activities, and events. It also serves as a support network for veterans, providing assistance for housing, healthcare, and employment. Contacts and an event calendar are posted.
https://www.servicesclubballymena.com/
