The Alan Kerins African Projects, the charity for creating sustainable living in Zambia, has been named as one of the GAA’s Charities of the Year for 2009/2010.
Set up by 32-year-old Clarenbridge physiotherapist and All Ireland Gaelic football medal holder Alan Kerins the organisation has drawn up a 10 year plan (to build ) multi-purpose centres to get people involved in sport, trade, skill learning and basic education.
These programmes are delivered by a team of volunteers, comprising university students, skilled tradespeople and professionals.
GAA president, Christy Cooney, said he was confident that the Alan Kerins African Projects will receive “co-operation and support” from Gaelic football clubs.
“We hope to help raise awareness of the plight of the poorest and most disadvantaged sections of African society and with the charity’s associated fundraising efforts. The GAA looks forward to working with Alan and his team and it reflects well on us as an association that one of our top hurlers is involved in excellent work such as this in a part of the world where it makes such a difference.”
Alan Kerins, founder of the Alan Kerins African Projects, is no stranger to the GAA. Having played both hurling and football at club and county level for Galway, he has welcomed the decision from the GAA to recognise his charity as one of the GAA Charities of the Year.
“This is one of the most rewarding recognitions I have ever received. To grow up with the GAA, having such respect and pride playing for my county in Croke Park, it is a wonderful accolade for the GAA president, Christy Cooney and his team to recognise the tireless work of the Alan Kerins African Projects. Supporting charities is more vital now than ever as there is less to go around. We need to identify and empathise with people by encouraging friendship partnerships. Becoming GAA Charity of the Year signifies an important partnership.”
Throughout the next year, the GAA will support Alan Kerins African Projects through various fundraising activities which include an approximate €50,000 donation from the GAA. Alan Kerins African Projects will run various sports related activities throughout the year with the help of the GAA and its county boards and provincial counties.
