Vote Now: autism charity iCARE shortlisted for PTSB community award
A successful public vote would bring significant funding to the local autism support charity
A simple online vote could deliver a major boost for autism services in Inishowen, with local charity iCARE shortlisted for a national PTSB ‘community partnership’ and calling on the public to get behind its campaign.
Inishowen Children’s Autism Related Education (iCARE) is one of five charities competing in the North and West category of the national awards, which are decided by an online public vote.
iCARE is appealing for public support. If it gets enough online votes, the Buncrana-based organisation could become a PTSB community partner and secure a significant cash grant.
Formed in 2000 by parents seeking better supports for children diagnosed with autism, iCARE has grown into a vital service for families across Inishowen, providing after-school programmes, weekend and holiday activities, youth services and adult supports.
Over the past quarter of a century, iCARE has steadily extended its services, establishing its base on Looking Glass Brae in Buncrana in 2007, the Sonas Youth Club for teenagers in 2013, and the iADULT day service in 2020.
Fifteen charities have been shortlisted overall, with five in each of three regions - Dublin and surrounding counties, North and West, and South and East.
iCARE members recently enjoyed a coffee morning at the PTSB branch in Buncrana.
In the North and West category, iCARE is competing alongside The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Cavan Autism Parents Support, Louth Cerebral Palsy Group and SOSAD Ireland.
The PTSB Community initiative supports local organisations that make a meaningful difference in communities across Ireland. To date, the programme has provided more than €2 million in funding to charities nationwide. The successful organisations selected this year will become PTSB community partners for 2026.
iCARE has encouraged the public to get behind the campaign, stressing that every vote counts and that people can vote using multiple devices.
Voting is now open and will close on Sunday, 22 February.
Votes can be cast at this link: PTSB Community Partners