By Eoin McGarvey
THE important role played by The Cope in supporting communities throughout west Donegal was highlighted with the relaunch of the Cope Community Trust in Dungloe.
The trust, which was originally established in 2010, has provided valuable financial assistance to a wide range of local clubs, charities, schools, community organisations, events and projects over the past 16 years.
Since its establishment, more than €150,000 has been raised and donated through the Community Trust, with over 200 groups and projects benefiting from its support.
Declan Dorrian and Seamus Price at the Cope Community Trust re-launch.
The recent relaunch marks a renewed commitment to that work and to ensuring that money raised locally continues to make a difference within communities across West Donegal.
The relaunch, addressed by CEO Mark Sharkey, was held in Sally’s Kitchen in the Cope Food Store and brought together trustees, board members, staff and representatives from local community organisations to celebrate the work of the Trust and look ahead to its next chapter.
The Trust is managed by trustees drawn from staff and community representatives, with funds raised through donations and fundraising activities.
The relaunch in Dungloe in the Cope’s 120th year provided an opportunity not only to look back on what has already been achieved, but also to focus on the next chapter of the Community Trust and encourage local organisations to engage with it.
Lisa, Emma and Casidhe at the relaunch of the Cope Community Trust.
Denis Ward and Frances Boyle at the relaunch of the Cope Community Trust.
Cope board members, Pat Dunleavy, Jimmy Durning, Kevin Bonner, and Mark Sharkey, CEO at the relaunch of the Community Trust.