Minister James Lawless Joins National Lottery in Celebrating Naas Community Men's Shed as Good Cause Legend 2026

Naas Community Men’s Shed has been crowned a National Lottery Good Cause Legend 2026, earning national recognition for its work in creating a friendly, safe and inclusive space where men in the Naas area can connect, share skills, stay active and support one another.

The National Lottery launched Good Cause Legends earlier this year to recognise extraordinary organisations, projects and individuals who have used National Lottery Good Causes funding to make a lasting impact in their communities.

Following a nationwide application and judging process, nine organisations from across Ireland were selected as Good Cause Legends, with three winners chosen in each of the three categories: Sport and Wellness, Cultural and Heritage, and Community. Each winner will receive a €15,000 award and a bespoke Good Cause Legends trophy.

Naas Community Men’s Shed earned its place as a Community Legend for the meaningful role it plays in bringing people together, helping men build confidence, reduce social isolation and find friendship, purpose and support through music, woodwork and shared community activities.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland, James Lawless, said:

“It is fantastic to see Naas Community Men's Shed recognised as a National Lottery Good Cause Legend 2026. The organisation embodies the very best of community spirit, creating opportunities for connection, friendship and support while making a meaningful difference to the lives of so many people in Kildare. This award is a fitting recognition of the commitment and dedication shown by everyone involved.”

National Lottery CEO, Cian Murphy, said:

"Good Cause Legends is about recognising the people and organisations whose impact goes far beyond what is expected and who make a genuine difference in their communities every day. Naas Community Men’s Shed is a truly deserving winner and an outstanding example of the impact being made in communities nationwide thanks to National Lottery Good Causes funding. The shed provides an important space for friendship, purpose and support for men in the Naas area while also sharing music, practical skills and community spirit across Kildare. Their warmth, creativity and dedication are a powerful example of what it means to be a legend, and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements and recognise the vital work they continue to do."

The full list of nine National Lottery Good Cause Legends 2026 are:

Community Legends:

Hygiene Hub (Dublin) Naas Community Men's Shed (Kildare) Sensational Kids (Cork)

Cultural & Heritage Legends:

Cape Clear International Storytelling Festival (Cork) Fishamble: The New Play Company (Dublin) The Hunt Museum (Limerick)

Sport & Wellness Legends:

Mayo Mountain Rescue Team (Mayo) My Canine Companion (Cork) Shannon's Hopeline (Dublin)

More information on the National Lottery Good Cause Legends can be found here.

Nearly 30 cent in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes in the areas of sport, youth, health, welfare, education, arts, heritage and the Irish Language. In total, €7 Billion has been raised for Good Causes since the National Lottery was established 39 years ago. In 2024 alone, €239.3 Million was raised for local Good Causes in communities across Ireland.

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