RTÉ’s Derek Mooney kicks off the fun and games as events get underway nationwide this weekend on 1 Day for Rehab
1 Day for Rehab is finally here! All across the country, over 100 communities are preparing to get together to have fun and raise much-needed funds for their local Rehab centre in the charity’s first-ever national fundraising initiative taking place this weekend, 18-20th June. RTÉ’s Derek Mooney and pupils from local primary schools officially kicked off Rehab’s first-ever national fundraising appeal at the Sandymount Community Fair taking place at its headquarters today (June 18), just one of the many exciting events and activities happening around the country over the coming days.
Rehab works in over 125 locations across Ireland, supporting over 7,500 people in enabling them to realise their dreams, learn skills, access job opportunities and live more independent lives, through resource and training centres, residential and supported accommodation services and in respite care, outreach and home-based services. Funds raised will go to support the development of Rehab’s high-quality services in local communities, helping to fund the purchase of educational aids, assistive technologies and music equipment, the development of relaxation rooms, sensory gardens, leisure and horticulture facilities, and the refurbishment and extension of service buildings.
Speaking in advance of 1 Day for Rehab, Pauline Crowley, Head of Fundraising at Rehab, said, “Rehab is here 365 days a year supporting children and adults with disabilities and others who are marginalised and, in coming up with our appeal, the hope is that in return people will support us on 1 Day for Rehab. We know from our recent survey undertaken to coincide with the launch of 1 Day that nine out of ten people feel that we need to rediscover our sense of community spirit.
“Thanks to the huge level of support that we have received in preparation for 1 Day, I firmly believe that we are certainly well on the way to regaining that sense of belonging and including everyone in our society and to raising vital funds for Rehab. Everyone in Rehab can’t wait for all of the various creative events to begin this weekend in practically every corner of the country and we are really grateful to all those communities who are taking part and supporting the work that we do.”
Rehab is encouraging everyone to come along to their nearest 1 Day event and get involved in a way that the whole community can participate in and enjoy. With so many activities planned all over the country, there is something to suit every taste, so why not get family and friends together, enjoy the sunshine and get out there this weekend and support Rehab? Check out www.1dayforwww.rehab.ie to find out exactly what is happening in a community near you, whether it is attending a 1 Day lunch with your neighbours, jumping out of a plane or dancing the night away! Here are just some of the event highlights in each region taking place in support of 1 Day for Rehab:
o Dun Laoghaire Family Treasure Hunt and Lunch – meet at the seafront (Sunday June 20 at 10am)
o 24-hour Scubathon – Kilkee Bay, Co. Clare (Friday June 18, 7pm)
o Lord Mayor’s Gala Ball – City Hall, Cork city (Saturday June 19, 7pm)
o Sandymount Community Fair – Rehab HQ, Roslyn Park, Sandymount (Friday June 18, 12-7pm)
o Dun Laoghaire to Howth and back 60K Sponsored Cycle – meeting at the Harbour, beside the ferry terminal (Sunday June 20, 10am)
o Longford Family Day – The Mall complex (Sunday, June 20, 12-6pm)
o Quest Open House, Coffee Morning and Cake Sale – (Wednesday June 30, 10am)
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About Rehab Rehab works towards a world where every person has the opportunity to achieve their potential. Over 3,350 Rehab staff members provide high-quality health and social care, training and education, and rehabilitation, employment and commercial services in Ireland, England, Scotland, the Netherlands and Poland. The people who currently use Rehab’s services include young people and adults with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities, people with mental health difficulties, people with autism and people with an acquired brain injury. A range of essential services is also provided to older people, carers and others who are marginalised. For more information see www.www.rehab.ie