Galway-based software company Channel Mechanics was proud to announce the successful completion of their 2024 “Peaks to Plunge” Charity Challenge, surpassing their €50,000 fundraising target in support of SCCUL Sanctuary, a Clarinbridge-based organization offering therapeutic retreat days for individuals facing serious health conditions or life challenges. The funds will be instrumental in helping SCCUL Sanctuary expand its facilities in 2025, including the construction of a new sanctuary room overlooking its sensory gardens.
Channel Mechanics recently welcomed SCCUL Sanctuary representatives, including William Browne, Sanctuary Manager, TJ Forde, CEO of SCCUL Enterprises CLG, and Annette Bluett to their Galway headquarters to present the donation and celebrate this remarkable achievement.
The Road to €50,000:
Channel Mechanics’ journey to fundraising €50,000 featured a variety of events and activities designed to engage employees with the campaign and build momentum towards reaching the fundraising target. A highlight of events included participation in the Streets of Galway 8km run, internal bake sales and raffles, and hands-on volunteering at the sanctuary.
The fundraising efforts culminated with their “Peaks to Plunge” Challenge, a 15km hike through the rugged Burren landscape followed by a swim in the Atlantic Ocean at Fanore Beach. Despite rain, wind, and steep climbs, 44 participants completed the Blackhead Loop trail and embraced the cold-water plunge with enthusiasm.
In addition to taking part in the challenge, Channel Mechanics once again implemented their innovative ‘Donate a Day’ scheme. This scheme enables employees to volunteer a day’s salary towards the fundraiser, with the company matching €200 for each contribution.
Kenneth Fox, CEO of Channel Mechanics and EY Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist 2024, praised the team’s unwavering commitment to this year’s fundraiser, stating “This fundraiser reflects the passion and generosity of our team and community, promoting a commitment to social responsibility. We are proud to support SCCUL Sanctuary and their incredible work in providing a place of healing for those in need. And I would like to personally thank the team for their exceptional efforts in executing our most ambitious fundraising initiative to date.”
William Browne, Sanctuary Manager at SCCUL Sanctuary Galway, expressed his gratitude, saying “Never in our wildest dreams did we expect to receive such a huge sum of money. In 2023 we reached capacity at our therapy centre. The funds Channel Mechanics have raised will now enable us to extend the SCCUL Sanctuary building and help more people facing life challenges such as Cancer, Parkinsons, Alzheimer’s and MS. I cannot speak highly enough of the staff of Channel Mechanics. The dedication they have shown in fundraising but also in volunteering at the Sanctuary every Friday afternoon was exemplary. The impact of this partnership will leave a lasting impact for years to come. A huge thank you!”
