A CASH windfall of €3,000 to be divided by six local charities has resulted from a staff and volunteer initiative undertaken by Killarney Credit Union.
The idea for the challenge was first floated by branch compliance manager, Shane Foley, to help promote fitness and wellness of mind and body, particularly during the tough level five lockdown.
There was a great take-up from both Credit Union staff and board of directors who decided that donating money to charity at the end would add greater motivation to their goal.
They collectively undertook the challenge by walking, jogging and running and they were delighted to surpass their initial three million metre target, completing 4.2 million metres in total in the month of March.
“There was a great buzz in the office with some healthy competition between colleagues as to who did the longest distance,” said Marketing Officer of Killarney Credit Union, Karena McCarthy.
“Most importantly we were able to donate €500 to each of the following worthy local charities,” she added.
Those that benefited were:
- The Kerry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre
- MS South Kerry branch
- Recovery Haven
- Kerry Mental Health Association
- St Anne’s Community Hospital, Cahecsiveen
- Taobh Linn (meals on wheels) Kenmare.
“The past 12 months have been hard on everyone and especially our local charities. Most of their usual fundraising incentives have had to be postponed so it is nice to be able to help them out in some small way,” said Karena.
“These charities, like ourselves, are community based and we all need to support each other.”
