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As part of our ongoing support for local community initiatives, ADAG recently attended a special event where handcrafted chess sets were presented to primary schools across the Midlands. The project was led by the Stepping Out programme — a vocational training and restorative justice initiative we are proud to support.

We spoke with Jim McNamee, Coordinator of the Stepping Out programme, about the inspiration behind this year’s project and the ongoing partnership with ADAG.

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495690497_9633356523417308_6673016383113240051_n: Jim, thank you for speaking with us. Can you tell us a bit about this year’s project?

Jim McNamee: This year, we decided to build on last year’s success, where our clients made chess boards for secondary schools. We noticed how popular chess has become among young people, so this time we created individual chess boards and pieces for primary schools in the Midlands. It’s a great way to give back and promote positive, educational activities.

ADAG: How does this fit into the wider mission of the Stepping Out programme?

Jim: Each year, through the restorative justice stream, our clients take on a project that gives something meaningful to the community. These projects help them build skills and confidence while doing something good for others. It’s a powerful combination.

ADAG: ADAG has been a funding partner for a number of years. How important is that support?

Jim: I really can’t overstate how crucial ADAG’s annual grant has been. Thanks to your support, we’ve been able to take on a wide variety of community-focused projects — from chess sets for schools and public libraries, to commemorative works like the Obelisk of Remembrance and the 1916 oak plaques in Burgess Park. The mosaic of Athlone in the new Garda Station wing is another highlight.

ADAG: We were thrilled to attend the recent event and see the joy these chess sets brought to students and teachers alike. What’s next for Stepping Out?

Jim: We’re always looking ahead. The participants have so much creativity, and with continued support from ADAG, I’m confident we’ll keep finding new ways to contribute to the community in meaningful ways.

We at ADAG are honoured to support initiatives like Stepping Out and look forward to many more impactful projects together. Thank you to Jim and his team for their hard work and dedication to building stronger communities.