Recognition of local fundraising efforts

Hundreds of thousands of pounds are raised every year for charities and good causes in Northern Ireland, both by volunteers and professional fundraisers.

For many charities, the money raised is a lifeline for them and those they seek to help. In a bid to recognise this tremendous contribution formally, the Institute of Fundraising Northern Ireland called for nominations for awards for individuals and fundraising campaigns.

Malachy McGovern from Royal Mail was nominated by Northern Ireland Hospice Care and at the recent award ceremony became the Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year.

Siofra Healy, Fundraising & Marketing Manager praised his efforts:

"Malachy is an exceptionally committed individual (who) has rallied support for the Children’s Hospice worth over £100,000 in cash and in kind for life limited children and their families".

The Fundraising Event of the Year award went to ‘Never Mind the Business’ by NCH Northern Ireland, the children's charity. Arlene Creighton, Regional Fundraiser said:

“Never Mind the Business really is a fundraising event with a difference. Not a dinner jacket or ball gown in sight, the dress code is strictly t-shirt and jeans. Each year NCH’s irreverent quiz attracts a host of Northern Ireland’s business elite and music aficionados who battle it out to become Never Mind the Business champions. Over the past two years Never Mind the Business has raised an amazing £65,000 for NCH’s work with vulnerable children and young people across Northern Ireland".