Stories of Impact
From Youth Member to Mentor: How Volunteer Sarah Collins is Building a Kinder Future
May 23, 2025
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When Sarah Collins first stepped into a Youth Red Cross meeting at the age of 11, she already knew this is where she belonged. For the East Limerick teen, the Red Cross wasn’t just an organisation—it was part of her family’s story. Her father, a dedicated volunteer, had founded their local branch, and the Red Cross ambulance was almost a fixture outside their home.
“I used to beg my dad to let me go with him when I was a child,” she laughs. “I loved being around it all – even just going along to watch first aid training and pretending to be the patient.”
She couldn’t wait to join properly, and in 2016, she did just that—signing up as a youth member and diving head-first into training.
“It was the coolest thing,” she remembers. “Learning CPR, how to bandage, how to help people in emergencies—it just clicked. I knew this was something I really wanted to do.”
Growing in Confidence
Today, Sarah is the Youth Officer for her branch, leading training sessions every Saturday and mentoring younger cadets and novices.
Her branch is small but mighty -15 active adult volunteers and eight young members – and Sarah plays a key role in keeping the youth programme thriving. Every Saturday, she gives two hours to lead engaging, practical training for the next generation of volunteers, all while balancing her nursing studies in Mayo during the week.
But her journey wasn’t always one of confidence and leadership.
“Before I joined, I was quite shy. I wasn’t great at talking to people or putting myself out there,” she says. “But through the Red Cross, I found like-minded people. I started to open up, to feel more confident. That’s where I really began to grow.”
The skills she gained—first aid, public speaking, leadership—have become part of who she is today.
A Lifeline During Lockdown
The COVID-19 pandemic hit during Sarah’s Leaving Cert year, and it left a lasting impact.
“I was 16 when the country first went into lockdown. I celebrated my 17th and 18th birthdays during the pandemic,” she shares. “It was a really hard time, especially for young people. There was no escape, no outlet for socialising.”
But even then, the Red Cross was there for her.
“I found my outlet through volunteering – working at the local vaccination centre. It gave me a way to get out, to be part of something, and to help. I also made new friends there, which meant the world during such an isolating time.”
A Moment of Pride
One of Sarah’s most treasured memories was receiving her first Red Cross uniform.
“I remember putting it on for the first time and feeling this huge sense of pride. I was part of something bigger than myself – something meaningful. It gave me confidence in who I was and what I could do.”
Sarah’s exceptional commitment to volunteering was formally recognised earlier this year when she was presented with a Garda Youth Award.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she says. “It was such an honour – but honestly, I’d do it all anyway.”
Once you’ve seen how even the smallest act can make a difference in someone’s life, it becomes part of who you are.
Giving Back as a Youth Leader
Now in a leadership role, Sarah’s focus is on giving back the same support and encouragement she once received.
“The leaders I had growing up made such a big difference to me. They were patient, kind, and believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. That’s what I want to give to the younger members now.”
She also finds creative ways to make learning fun and engaging like bringing the Irish Red Cross ambulance to her local preschool.
“We ran a mini hospital for the kids’ dolls and teddies,” she says. “They love it – and you can see how it sparks their curiosity. Some of them get so into it, pretending to be paramedics or nurses. It’s about planting those seeds early – kindness, empathy, and care for others.”
A Red Cross Family
The Red Cross is in Sarah’s blood. With her dad founding the local branch and the ambulance always at their door, community service has been a way of life for as long as she can remember.
“It’s not just volunteering – it’s a lifestyle.”
Even now, studying nursing in college and balancing her education with training duties, Sarah prioritises the Red Cross above all else.
“If I could give 22 hours a day, 7 days a week to the Red Cross, I would,” she laughs. “It always comes first.”
Friendships That Last
Beyond the skills and service, Sarah treasures the friendships she’s built along the way.
“I’ve made some of my best friends through the Red Cross,” she says. “Whether it’s national youth events, training weekends, or working shifts together – those shared experiences build really strong bonds.”
She’s even had the chance to travel with the Irish Red Cross, attending events across Ireland in Germany and Italy. “Those opportunities have opened up a whole new world for me,” she says. “I never imagined that when I was 11 and just learning how to put on a sling!”
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a Youth Officer, Sarah’s goal is to show young people that they can be leaders too.
“You don’t have to wait until you’re an adult to make a difference,” she says. There’s something for everyone in the Irish Red Cross – whether you’re into first aid, humanitarian work, mental health, or just want to meet great people and grow in confidence. You’ll find your place here.”
Looking Ahead
“I don’t think I’ll ever stop,” she says. “Once you’ve seen how even the smallest act can make a difference in someone’s life, it becomes part of who you are.”
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, Sarah Collins stands out as a true embodiment of the Irish Red Cross spirit – quietly changing lives, building community, and inspiring the next generation to believe in their power to help.
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