Go for Life has launched its annual grant scheme for older groups and clubs. Almost €300,000 has been allocated to this year's scheme, organised by Go for Life and the Irish Sports Council. Groups and clubs of older people all over the country can apply for grants to spend on equipment, to get an instructor in for a few sessions, or to organise a sports fest in their area. Typical amounts awarded are between €300 and €700 and the grants generally go to active retirement associations, senior citizens clubs, ICA guilds, day centres, and community centres.
“Thousands of older people who get active with Go for Life every week tell us that variety is the spice of life. This small grant helps to spice up Go for Life sessions. Over the years, people have used the grants to do various physical activities like tai chi, archery, Pilates, hip-hop, swimming, or to get sports equipment like kurling, skittles, molle balls, bocce discs, or parachute and all kinds of other things besides. They've also used their grants to get a bit of competition going with different groups in a local sports fest, attracting new members in the process,” says Go for Life's Sue Guildea. “We're looking forward to seeing what people request in their grants this year and to hearing about the difference that the money can make.”
Charlie Lambert, sports co-ordinator for Mayo Sports Partnership, added: “We have assisted many groups in Mayo preparing applications for this scheme. The Sports Partnership can provide names of reputable instructors to deliver suitable programmes such as indoor fitwalking, exercise to music, yoga, Pilates, bowling, etc. This allows the group to utilise their grant to its maximum.”
Application forms are now available from Mayo Sports Partnership office at 094 904 7025 or download at www.mayosports.ie/news Closing date for receipt of applications is September 28 2012.
