Local IWA appeals for support for fundraising day

Irish Wheelchair Association's (IWA) annual fundraising day is taking place across Ireland, including Athlone, today (Thursday, September 24).

Members, staff and volunteers will be on the streets of the town collecting vital funds for the supports and activities IWA provides in Athlone and across the country.

IWA has a strong presence in Athlone, with a thriving centre that provides education, recreation and personal development opportunities for people with disabilities, as well as invaluable supports.

A school leavers programme has just been launched by Athlone IWA which will be another significant service for young adults with disabilities across the county.

The centre has a sensory garden for horticulture and relaxation, which is a wonderful resource for members, thanks to local volunteers and donors. The organisation's bus service supports people from around Athlone and neighbouring Roscommon to get to the centre each week, and they also plan regular trips together.

IWA member Peadar Mulvihill, who attends the Athlone centre regularly, says that IWA is very important to him and has been a great support.

He outlines the impact: “I always have a reason to get up in the morning. I love the buzz, the fun, and the craic. I get to experience new things and have made so many new friends. It has been a lifeline.”

IWA volunteers will be collecting outside Aldi stories in Athlone. TY students from Athlone Community College will be supporting IWA on the day.

Monica Hughes, Service Coordinator, IWA Athlone said: "We are blessed in Athlone to have the support of an amazing group of volunteers who give so freely of their time and talents. Our members value the support of their community so much."

IWA hopes to raise €40,000 to support the organisation’s work locally and across the country. Last year the organisation provided 87,080 days of community services through its 48 community centres and 17 outreach centres nationwide.

The organisation also delivered assisted living services in homes across the country and supported 19 IWA Sports Clubs, including Shannonside Stealers, while its 142 accessible buses supported with IWA-transport services.

IWA’s work nationwide is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities in communities to live a life of choice and independence. The organisation relies on donations to develop, grow and continue to support its members who want to be active, social, independent and advocate for their rights.

All donations, big or small are appreciated and if you can’t give on the day, you can donate any time on www.iwa.ie/donate.