Butlersbridge man honoured for "outstanding" work
CAVAN man Sean Brogan was given an award for his “outstanding commitment” to Concern Worldwide after he and his team of supporters raised over €140,000 for the humanitarian aid organisation.
The Butlersbridge native said he started fundraising for Concern during the annual Concern Fast campaign 23 years ago after seeing images of malnourished children on his television.
He has a team of up to 112 people, who over the past 23 years have raised over €140,000 for Concern’s work in the world’s poorest countries.
The charitable Cavan man has often travelled to Concern’s headquarters in Dublin to deliver the money they have raised, which included a cheque for €10,143 raised by him and 91 other people who took part in the 24-hour Concern Fast in 2019.
On Saturday, May 21, Sean was among the 31 people or groups honoured by Concern at their annual event, which celebrates the vital contribution made by the charity’s 1,500 volunteers in Ireland.
Concern’s Chief Executive, Dominic MacSorley, praised the organisation’s volunteers for helping them to continue to reach the world’s most vulnerable people in countries like Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria and Ethiopia.
“We are deeply grateful to all our volunteers and donors for their continued support, especially in these difficult times,” said Mr MacSorley.
“Whether it’s through fundraising walks or climbs, shaking a bucket or adjudicating school debates, the commitment of Concern volunteers has kept a flame of compassion alive in communities across Ireland at a time when the need has never been greater in many parts of the world.
“The war in Ukraine has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis, but Irish people have responded with compassion and generosity to the needs of people who have had to flee from their homes.
“Tragically, this war is taking place at a time of already surging humanitarian need, where drought is devastating the Horn of Africa, and millions of people around the world are suffering the consequences of poverty, conflict and climate change.
“I want to thank all of the volunteers, donors, teachers and Concern Debates adjudicators and everyone around the country who provides a key link between the Irish public and the people in need of assistance at this challenging moment in time.”