Remember Us provides a unique social outlet to people with special needs and their families in the North Fingal region. Although based in Balbriggan, our members come from all over Dublin and surrounding areas. It is the families that are the members; this means that not only the individual with special needs benefits from our group but their parents/carers and siblings too.
Our Families describe Remember Us as their LIFELINE, as having a child/adult with special needs can be very isolating, not only for the individual concerned but, for the family as a whole.
Remember Us was set up by Nora Roban in 1998. When asked why, Nora replied
“The answer is simple. My son Paul has special needs. It is absolutely vital for people with special needs to develop their social skills and self-esteem early in life, to help integrate into society. I instinctively knew that without developing this side of his life he would always feel inadequate and isolated from society. This would inevitably lead to even greater problems as he got older. After years of searching and failing to find such a place, I decided to set up Remember Us, for Paul and for other children like him.
We all know the importance of social integration and for most of us it occurs in a very natural way. As a result we very often take it for granted. Like others, I had tried mainstream clubs for Paul but unfortunately the experience left him feeling even more isolated because of his inability to participate at the same level as the other children.
People with special needs initially require an environment where social skills can be taught and nurtured. They need to be able to experience the same social activities as other people, but in surroundings adapted to their needs and where they feel comfortable and not threatened or scared. A place where they can interact with each other and with their families without feeling they are different and don’t belong.”
Since 1998 our club has grown from a handful of people to now being an integral and invaluable part of the lives of 350+ families impacting on over 850 people.
As the old adage goes: If not you – who? If not now – when?
Creating opportunities for members to meet, socialise and build lasting friendships.
Helping members develop confidence, life skills and independence.
Providing enjoyable social, recreational and developmental opportunities.
Supporting parents, carers and siblings as part of the wider Remember Us community.
Creating an environment where every member feels welcomed and valued.
Building meaningful connections within Balbriggan and the surrounding area.
About Us
As a registered charity, transparency, good governance and the wellbeing of our members are central to how Remember Us operates.