Rural Action marked its 7th birthday in style with a unique and successful fundraising event, raising much needed funds for Rural Support’s ‘Spring Forward, Give Back’ Campaign.
The ‘Mug-nificent Fundraiser,’ held on Thursday 26th March at the Conference Hall, Loughry College, brought together attendees from across Northern Ireland and Ireland for an all-day “brewfest” with a twist on the traditional coffee morning.
Guests were invited to drop in throughout the day, enjoying unlimited tea, coffee and refreshments, while supporting fundraising efforts which will make a real difference to farming families across Northern Ireland, helping them continue to provide practical, emotional and financial wellbeing support where it’s needed most.
Attendees received a limited-edition Rural Action branded mug, featuring artwork specially designed by members of staff and their family members. The mugs not only served as a keepsake from the day, but also reflected the creativity and community spirit at the heart of the organisation.
“We wanted to celebrate our 7th birthday in a way that truly reflected our values” said Teresa Canavan, Founder and CEO. “The turnout and generosity on the day were incredible, and we’re proud to support Rural Support and the essential work they do. It was fantastic to see staff and their families contribute to the mug designs as it really added a personal touch to the event. It was wonderful to see so many people make the effort to support the event, with attendees travelling from Fermanagh, Donegal, Louth, Tyrone, Monaghan, Derry and Down.’
Rural Action would like to extend sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event a success.
With donations still coming in, Rural Action is confident that the Mugnificent Fundraiser will reach its £1,000 target for Rural Support, ensuring even more families can benefit from the vital services the charity provides.
The success of the event also reflects the strong leadership at the heart of Rural Action.
Fittingly, the following day Teresa was honoured with the prestigious ‘Leading a Small Organisation’ award, organised by Co3 Chief Officers 3rd Sector and held at The Europa Hotel, Belfast. The recognition celebrates her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and transformative impact on rural communities.
Notes to Editor
Rural Action was formed in 2019 as a not-for-profit social purpose company and became a registered charity in March 2022. It was established to meet an identified need for a regional delivery organisation with a focus on supporting grassroots communities. It seeks to make a positive contribution to the everyday lives of rural communities, with an ambition to achieve this, not only through working with others, but as an organisation to give back, to support and inspire rural communities to design, deliver and implement practical projects.
Rural Support offers a freephone confidential Support Line, one-to-one business mentoring support, counselling services and financial guidance — a vital lifeline for many within the farming community who are facing stress, isolation and hardship.