When two Clogherhead men, Aaron Walsh and Thomas Sullivan, cycled 100kms to raise funds for Down Syndrome Ireland last month they did so knowing they had received tremendous support from the local community.
Such was the strength of this support the duo managed to raise the tidy sum of €4,000 for their chosen charity which works out at €40 per kilometre.
The lads also received great encouragement from the village Mace store which is run by Aaron’s father Niall.
“We are delighted with the success of the cycle by Aaron and Thomas and are incredibly proud of their efforts” Niall said.
“All the money raised goes to Down Syndrome Ireland and we are absolutely thrilled to have raised such a significant sum for this very worthy cause.”
Since adopting Down Syndrome Ireland as MACE’s official charity partner in 2017, MACE Retailers have engaged in a number of initiatives designed to raise awareness and funds for the worthy charity and have raised nearly €200,000 in that time.
This year, for the first time ever, MACE renewed the partnership for a further two years with all funds raised going to support a new online education course for every adult aged 29+ with Down Syndrome in Ireland.
‘Ability Online’ will provide support to adults aged over 29 with Down syndrome who are struggling with isolation and job losses as a result of Covid-19. The course, which will run every 10 weeks, can be delivered remotely and combines online tasks and group Zoom discussions.
Daniel O’Connell MACE Sales Director said: “I want to commend Aaron, Thomas and all at MACE Clogherhead for their commitment to this fundraising initiative. MACE is very proud to be associated with this cycle and I am sure that Down Syndrome Ireland will be thrilled with the contribution.
“This cheque will help provide meaningful opportunities to adults with Down syndrome to engage, socialise and look for employment opportunities.”
