A group of Arranmore mothers hosted a hugely successful night of fun and fundraising last month which gathered an impressive sum of money for charity.

Four causes will benefit from the €7,000+ funds raised by the island community on February 18th. Up to 200 locals enjoyed an unforgettable night of music and games in Early’s Bar and made a fantastic display of generosity.

The Arranmore Charity Fundraiser Night was dreamt up by a committee of proactive women who wanted to give back to charities which have aided locals or have links to the island. These charities are Autism Support Dungloe, Donegal Down Syndrome Association, Beaumont Foundation (Cochlear Implant) and The Katie Rose Foundation. The committee members are Elaine Barney, Elaine Sailor, Florence Calais, Sally Brady, Marjorie O’Donnell, Ann Minnie, Bernie Green or Brianne Brady.

“We got together with the hope of raising €4,000. We didn’t ask for much but people gave what they wanted to give and the generosity was just amazing,” Elaine Barney said.

Excitement

It’s not the norm for a party to begin as early as 9pm on Arranmore, Elaine said – because everyone knows that the celebrations will last well into the wee hours. On this occasion, however, the guests came eagerly on time.

The first 50 people through the door were entered into a raffle for spot prizes. A silent auction and disco also kept the energy and excitement high all night long.

The music kicked off at 9pm. John Bosco volunteered as DJ, along with musicians including Green Island aka Paddy Dhomhnaill, Connie McCauley & Peter Rodgers along with Jerry Early, Hugh Nancy, Madge Greene Boyle and Andrew Early.

Co-organiser Elaine thanked all the kind sponsors and businesses who sold tickets and promoted the event. She highlighted the great work of the four charities which were well-represented on the night.

The committee has been even more inspired to continue organising fundraisers. The next event on their agenda is the annual Walk of Remembrance on Arranmore at Easter.

Kind Community

Representatives from Féileacáin, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland will be visiting the island this month to thank the community for their support of €1,220 raised on Boxing Day.

“From Christmas week to now I would say that around €20,000 has been raised for charities. For such a small place you could only imagine what people can do elsewhere,” Elaine said.