One of our younger parishioners, Hannah Martin of Primary 5 and known to many who attend our Sunday 10.30 Mass, was determined to do more this year than simply fill a SCIAF wee box. Hannah's New Year Resolution was to "raise money to help people around the world who don't have all the wonderful things that I have."

Undimmed by time, this idea took the shape of a fundraising night in our Parish Centre and Hannah undertook to encourage those around her to make sure the idea became reality. Within a short space of time Hannah and her helpers had organised a ceilidh evening on the 27 April with all proceeds to be given to SCIAF.

Hannah arranged for the internationally known Celine Donogue and band to play at the event (which they generously did for free) and arranged ticket sales such that the night quickly sold out.

Wanting to maximise the amount raised, Hannah arranged for a number of donations from local businesses, individuals and politicians and was able to offer a number of raffles and other prizes on the night.

All in all, Hannah raised the magnificent amount of £933 from the night and has passed this to SCIAF at a specially arranged presentation during a school assembly. Not only did SCIAF gratefully receive this amount, but the pupils were very interested to hear more about the work of SCIAF and just how the money would be spent.

As well as raising money for an inherently good cause, Hannah has increased awareness of global citizenship amongst her classmates and let's not forget that around 100 adults plus children greatly enjoyed the ceilidh evening. Congratulations Hannah!

Here are some pictures from the event, and you can see that young and old alike had a good time.

Hannah welcomed everyone to the event and explained her reason for organising the event. 

Hannah and the band, being photographed by the local press. 

Some of the young people enjoying the entertainment. 

All age groups taking part in a Canadian Barn dance