Building Community and Finding Support with CRAG

Karin Ahlers, Clann Resident & CRAG member, tells us about her journey to join CRAG. In September 2004, I moved from Hamburg, Germany, to Dublin. After working as a teacher, I retired in April 2018, the same year I moved into Clúid Housing (now Clann) at Killarney Court, Dublin 1. From the beginning, I felt at home, thanks to my friendly and welcoming neighbours.

Now in retirement, I am passionate about building communities. Living in Dublin’s North Inner City comes with challenges… Wanting to be part of a solution, I connected with other residents who shared similar concerns, which led me to meet Elaine Bruton of Clúid’s Resident Engagement & Insights team. In the summer of 2023, she introduced me to CRAG (Clann Residents Advisory Group).

Since joining, I’ve found great support and advice from like-minded residents facing similar challenges. Being part of CRAG has helped me see the bigger picture – understanding that our struggles are shared and that we are not alone. However, I find it challenging to encourage more residents to get involved.

If you’re interested in making a difference in our community, I encourage you to join us. Together, we can create positive change.