Foyle Hospice benefits from mammoth fundraising efforts of Corin and Colt

The Foyle Hospice is set to benefit from the mammoth fundraising efforts of Corin Kelly Herron (15) and his friends.

In January of this year, Corin, who comes from Strabane, resolved to raise £10,000 for the Foyle Hospice, so he got in touch with his friends to support him with his campaign.

Since then, Corin and his team have taken part in various activities including, door-to-door collections, car washes, bingo, and a community fun day, as well as a number of skydives and raffles, along with his friend Colt (14).

Corin and Colt are both iwill Ambassadors for UK Youth.

As well as fundraising, Corin and Colt volunteer with the local Community Rescue Service and YouthAction NI.

The people of Strabane are very familiar with the great work these young people have done over the past four years, from delivering care packages, helping out with community floods, volunteering at events, checking life rings on the river and fundraising for charities. Over the last four years they have raised more than £20,000.

Due to their success and commitment, UK Youth and YouthAction NI invited Corin and Colt to meet the British Prime Minister for lunch at 10 Downing Street to talk about the work in the community.

Corin and Colt with British PM Rishi Sunak.

Corin and Colt have delivered programmes in primary schools across the North, spreading positive messages to over 200 young people about the importance of volunteering as well as altruism.

Corin said: “Young people will get more inspiration, listening to other young people and hearing our stories.”

These young people are not planning on stopping and are already thinking about their next charity to support.

They are also working in partnership with a new idea which will be developed over the next 18 months.

A spokesperson for YouthAction NI said: “Both Corin and Colt are an inspiration to all young people. Their commitment and passion has enabled them to achieve their fundraising goals.

“These two young people have so much inspiration and a will to help others. We have been supporting both Corin and Colt and hope their work in the community will inspire others.”

“Usually we listen to stories of young people involved in anti-social behaviour, standing in street corners and underage drinking and so on, but there are young people in the community willing to make positive changes within their community. Both Corin and Colt lead the way and they are hoping that more young people will follow them.”

Corin said that fundraising gave him so much pride in helping others. “It gives me that feel-good feeling,” he added.

“I feel it is vital to thank those who have supported me over the past seven months, so I will be hosting a celebration event on July 23, at the Railway Bar at 7pm, which will include food, guest speakers and a live draw.”