A group of mothers from Arranmore have come together to host the first ever Arranmore Charity Fundraiser event. Here is their story:

This event on Saturday February 18th is an exciting highlight on the calendar of a group of Arranmore women and is a big talking point among the islanders. Live music, a raffle, a silent auction and disco are all on the agenda for a fun-filled evening in Early’s Bar this Saturday at 9pm. The mothers have already an established committee and have been fundraising for various causes over the years.

Early’s Bar, Arranmore Ireland

Elaine Barney Boyle spoke to Donegal Woman ahead of the event about her passion for fundraising: “I lost my father through sickness and I always want to do something for him. He loved Easter time so we formed a walk of remembrance and we do it for a different charity every year. That really took off and it’s a really nice event which takes place every Easter Saturday,” she said.

Elaine used the established committee of women to expand their charity efforts. She couldn’t just pick one cause this time, so four special funds were selected which were close to their hearts.

The women contacted four parents involved with four charities which have aided locals or have links to the island. These charities are:
1) Autism Support Dungloe
2) Donegal Down Syndrome Association
3) Beaumont Foundation (Cochlear Implant)
4) The Katie Rose Foundation

The women have received an incredible outpouring of kindness so far, as locals and businesses donated and sponsored prizes for the night’s raffle.

“I have been fundraising for the guts of 15 years, and by far this has been the most positive response I ever got,” Elaine said.

“We are a small community and the support we have received has been amazing. We have some great prizes up for grabs including a two night stay in Shandon Hotel sponsored by The Shandon Hotel, two return flights to Dublin sponsored by Donegal Airport, €350 Voucher for Harvey’s Point sponsored by Donna & Hughie Kavanagh Crangy Construction, pamper hamper, wine, vouchers from lots of hotels and restaurants locally and much much more,” Elaine said.

One prize in the raffle is a Harvey’s Point voucher

The fun begins at 9pm with live music by Green Island aka Paddy Dhomhnaill, Connie McCauley & Peter Rodgers along with Jerry Early, Hugh Nancy and any local musician who would like to give a song or two.

Having not one, but four charities seemed like a large task for a first fundraiser of its kind. Nonetheless, the committee are dedicated to helping each cause in equal measure.

“We say each one is an important as the next. Whatever we make is more money than they had the day before that. We are a small community and after the holidays people aren’t flush with cash, but it’s a nice time of year to do something. It’s nice for the locals to have something to look forward to. Everybody is talking about it,” Elaine said.

“This is a wee thank you from the island to these four charities to give them a little bit back. You’re better to give thanks when it’s worthy,” she said.

One item in the silent auction is a signed Donegal football by Michael Murphy

Donations will be taken at the door there is a raffle on the night. The first 50 people to attend will be given a number and will be in with a chance to win spot prizes.

“It’s lovely way to spend Valentine’s weekend with loved ones, family and friends. Spread the word and hope to see you all there on the night. Everyone welcome,” Elaine said.

If you wish to donate anything you can contact or give it to Elaine Barney, Elaine Sailor, Florence Calais, Sally Brady, Marjorie O’Donnell, Ann Minnie, Bernie Green or Brianne Brady. For more details check it out Arranmore Charity Fundraiser on Facebook.

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