Network Ireland Kildare Branch hold annual Charity Luncheon in Lawlor's Hotel, Naas

On Friday 29th of November, Network Ireland Kildare Branch showed the power of stronger connections and the profound effects of charitable actions, as they celebrated there Annual Charity Luncheon which took place in Lawlor’s Hotel, Naas in aid of this years nominated charity Saplings Special School for Children with Autism and Special Needs, Kill, Co Kildare.

All in attendance discovered the true value of giving back and embraced the opportunity in making positive change.

MC on the day was DJ Dave Treacy of 2FM radio who generously gave up his time to help this worthy community charity. Also in attendance was National President Linda Codoul and National Vice President Amy O Sullivan alongside members of the National Executive Committee and other Branch Presidents.

The room filled with Special Guests, Members, School Children’s Parents, Family, Friends and members of the local community who raised a considerable amount of money to go towards fundraising efforts for the children’s outside space and covered area for the children to use all year round. The children will benefit immensely now and in the future.

Principal Alan Brennan took to the stage to speak about the efforts of teachers, parents and caregivers towards their continued concerns around the supports needed for the children.

Although, being extremely grateful for all the assistance and help provided by so many to date it is important to remember much more needs to be done. At present the School is not directly funded by the government and is solely funded by the efforts of the school, parents and wider community initiatives to ensure that the School and Students are supported and that awareness is shared that supports for the students will continue to be needed for the future.

Outgoing President of the Network Ireland Kildare Branch Anita Meenehan said: “I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved for the support. As we round out a momentous Charity Luncheon for Saplings Special School and for Network Ireland Kildare branch. Looking around the room it was clear new friendships had been made and long formed bonds strengthened.

"The day was a fabulous representation of the strength of Network Ireland Kildare Branch raising awareness around the School and for the funds raised to provide much needed support for the benefit of all pupils. We were joined by many from all across the country which made the day an incredible success”.

Anita also said:

”I want to thank the school representatives and parents and in particular the Saplings School principal Alan Brennan and his team of staff for your drive to ensure the children’s needs are met and that they are of top priority. I thank you for your compassion and support to the parents as they continue to strive for more reforms and more meaningful focused supports to be provided to their special needs children”.

"To the committee who worked so hard to make this event a success, a committee of empowering and supportive women. Your efforts truly makes Network Ireland Kildare branch an organisation of dedicated volunteers an exceptional resource.

"To our Network Ireland President Linda Codoul, Vice President Amy O Sullivan, Network Ireland Branch Presidents and members of the National Executive Committee, thank you for your incredible input and commitment of support on the day.

"Thank you to our Official Partners AIB and especially Verna Armstrong and Sinead Byrne from the Newbridge Branch for your attendance on the day.

"To our VIP guests, Thank you all for helping us share the message of support, The coming together of local organisations only strengthens the future for all who we serve.

"A special thank you the team of ladies who joined us on the day today from the Kerry Group, thank you Susan and all the ladies for all your support. To all our incredible sponsors and of course everyone that booked tables and contributed so generously towards the raffles on the today. Thank you. As a voluntary organisation it is critical we have the support of our event partners, local organisations, member sponsors, gifting partners and all donations possible to insure the best possible outcomes for raising money for charity. Our fundraising events and efforts are only possible because of all of you.

"A special thank you to our main sponsors Teahan Optometrists Naas, Anderson Jewellers Naas, Xpert Professional Naas, Punctual Print Blessington, Lily O'Brien's Chocolates, Newbridge, Lawlor's of Naas Balloon HQ Newbridge,  Cllr. Evie Sammon our Entertainment on the day Copperhead Road Band.

"Thank you to our room sponsors for contributing so generously towards the successful event. Daracore Ltd, Maureen McCowen of Soft Skill Success, Edel Walsh Coaching and Consulting, MJOS Group and Siobhan Quirke of Kildare Osteopathy.

"To the management and staff of the incredible Lawlor's of Naas the hospitality. A true example of hotel excellence. Thank you all so much for the fabulous food and customer service.

"Visit our Instagram and Facebook pages for more updates and the amazing photos from Photographer: Jill O'Meara Photography