REPRESENTATIVES from 35 local groups, schools, associations and sports clubs descended on Croke Park recently for a community reception hosted by GAA President, Liam O’Neill and Stadium & Commercial Director, Peter McKenna.
The event was organised to recognise their work throughout the local community following financial assistance received from the Croke Park Community Fund.
Established in 2008, the Croke Park Community Fund supports a wide range of local community initiatives based within 1.5km of the stadium.
Since its inception, the fund has allocated over e450,000 in funding to local schools, residents’ associations, voluntary organisations and sports clubs.
GAA President Liam � Néill said the stadium was committed to supporting as many local community groups as possible since the fund was established five years ago as part of the Community Gain Programme.
“We want to acknowledge and thank our local neighbours for their commitment to improving the lives and well-being of others living near Croke Park,
? said Mr � Néill.
“The work that is achieved in the community by local groups, schools and organisations with help from the Community Fund is a source of inspiration and pride to us.
“This year, we want to support even more community projects and events than ever before.
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Local resident Christy Fagan, chief instructor at the Sean McDermott Street Taekwon-Do School, said last year the fund helped them to buy new Taekwon-Do uniforms for children in the club.
“It’s thanks to Croke Park that we’ve also been able to improve the facilities here in Lourdes Parish Hall over the past few years,
? said Mr Fagan.
The Croke Park Community Fund for 2014 is now open for applications and the form can be downloaded from www.crokepark.ie.
Additional information and help filling in the application form is also available from the stadium, contact jsavage@crokepark.ie or phone 01-8658607.