House, trance and dance fundraiser for children's charity

Inspired by a similar fundraiser in Liverpool, Kaycee (Karen) Carton decided to organise a rave event closer to home for a charity close to her heart.

In 2011 Kaycee's life changed when a member of her family came into conflict with the law.

"I'd never been in a police station never mind a court before, but quite quickly I found myself on my own, wanting to support someone who was going through a really difficult time but not quite sure where to turn," said Kaycee.

"Around this time I was taking part in mentoring training with Include Youth. They were describing the work they did with young people in custody, how they listen to their stories and make sure the correct services are in place for them. I just felt finally there was an organisation that could help.

"When children get into trouble, people very often turn their backs on them but this organisation took an interest and as a result took an interest in me. They signposted me to the Children's Law Centre and other agencies that could help. Very quickly I embraced the situation my family was going through and as a result we are all in a good place again now."

Kaycee, who is currently studying for a BA Hons in Youth and Community Work, has always had a passion for dance music and is a regular at the reunion raves so contacted well-known artists Dj X-ray, Stevie T, Chris Butler (Liverpool), Craig Dalzell, Booshanty, Steve Graham, Jan Summers, Devenney and Wes White about the possibility of taking part in a fundraiser event.

Very quickly she secured nine DJ's and two dancefloors for a five hour long rave on May 7 2016, thanks to the support of Steven Ross from the Atlantic Bar. The event was well supported with ravers attending from across Northern Ireland.

Paddy Mooney, Director at Include Youth, added: "As an organisation we are so grateful to people like Kaycee, who use their passion and experiences to fundraise for our organisation.

"We've been supporting young people in or leaving care and from disadvantaged communities with their employability and personal development for years, but a lesser known part of our work is in the area of youth justice. As we continue to work with vulnerable young people, the support from Kayce and others like her is very much appreciated and will be used towards helping the young people on our programmes gain their qualifications, grow in confidence and self-esteem and move into employment."

Include Youth is based in throughout Northern Ireland, with offices in all five Health and Social Care Trust areas. The charity raises awareness about youth justice issues and supports young people aged 16 to 24 into employment, education or training.

ENDS

Media enquiries: For more information contact Sharon Whittaker, Communications at Include Youth, on 028 9031 1007 or email [email protected] (Monday- Wednesday)