Community Roots

Community Roots CLG is a multi-award-winning, volunteer-led social enterprise founded by Scott Bryan and Caitriona Kenny, who hold expertise in permaculture and sustainable community development. The initiative embodies the Irish concept of 'meitheal’, neighbours helping neighbours‚ adapted for modern urban communities. Since 2022, Community Roots has received recognition including a Dublin City Council Neighbourhood Award and has expanded from Dublin 7 to multiple neighbourhoods.

Local coordinators are the backbone of the programme's success. You'll work from home, at community gardens, or at pairing meetings within your local area. During the setup phase (March-April), you'll be more actively involved in coordinating initial meetings and establishing pairings, but once partnerships are running, the role settles into a supportive rhythm of regular check-ins and monthly gatherings.

Each garden-share pairing receives a high-quality raised bed (minimum two square metres), compost, growing starter kit with seeds and tools, written agreements setting healthy boundaries, and access to workshops and community events. Garden owners and growers ideally live within walking distance of each other, and the programme supports various settings including private homes, nursing homes, and apartment buildings.

The coordinator role includes safeguarding training and Garda Vetting, as you'll be party to personal matters requiring strict confidentiality. You'll build confidence, develop facilitation skills, and become part of a burgeoning national movement. Community Roots provides a comprehensive handbook, ongoing phone and email support, and connects you with experienced coordinators. Visit Community Roots to see their impact reports and learn more about the initiative's success stories.