The Dublin Community Blog

Last week, the good guys from Simply Zesty had invited me to attend the launch of the next stage of Vodafone’s World of Difference initiative, but I could however not make it. I do however like to provide some information about this programme (which I really think is an initiative that’s worth supporting, never minding the brand that’s behind it). What you do is basically donate yourself instead of money. Here’s a statement from the official press release:

Vodafone Ireland Foundation’s World of Difference programme is offering 30 people the opportunity to take a 3-month paid placement with an Irish charity of their choice. This is the chance to donate more than money; it’s the chance to donate yourself.

The programme opens for entries today and the winners will take up their position with their chosen charity next February. Interested applicants are encouraged to find a charity that they want to work with, agree on a position they can fulfil and then apply online at www.vodafone.ie/foundation or the ‘World of Difference’ Facebook site. Likewise, charities are advised to find their own applicants for the programme if they have a specific project in mind but just need the right person. Charities can even seek like-minded souls and advertise for suitable applicants on the Facebook site to find their perfect match.

So if you really want to support and help a charity (and got 3 months to spare), why not think about applying? You’ll find all details over on their website, and you can apply until November 21st.

Here’s also a short video, showing what I missed on the night of the launch and featuring some tips from a successful applicant for the programme:

Big thanks to Declan for letting us know about a gig happening in The Button Factory this Friday night to benefit relief efforts in Haiti. Attention Bebe and Mob Fandango headline the show and The Button Factory have offered their venue for free so that all proceeds can go to Partners in Health in their efforts to bring relief and humanitarian aid to the people of Haiti. CLICK HERE to see the Facebook event page. Tickets are €10 at the door.

As you may know, there will be loads of women in trainers running around in the city tomorrow afternoon.  And all will be running for a good cause – or good causes:

The Flora Women’s Mini Marathon is the biggest all women’s event of its kind in the world. It has grown steadily in numbers since it began in 1983 with its popularity increasing significantly over the last few years.

Over those years some 600,000 women have entered the event – and the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon had a record field of 40,516 on Bank Holiday Monday, June 2nd, 2008.

Charities are the big winners. In 2008 it is estimated in excess of €10m was raised by the participants bringing the total since the race started in 1983 close to €100m. All charities benefit. The women decide themselves who they will support and many local causes gain vital revenue from the event. It is now the biggest single day charity event in the country.

Supported charities include the Dublin RSPCA, Barnados, Debra Ireland and many more. You will find all necessary information on the official website of the marathon. So if you have nothing planned for tomorrow’s bank holiday (and the perfect weather), please go and cheer for the good cause(s).

Please note that the following roads will be closed due to the marathon between 2.45 and 5.30 PM:

Nutley Lane
Stillorgan Road from Belfield to Donnybrook
Doimybrook Village
Morehampton Road
Leeson Street

From 12 noon today, Dec 21st for 24 hours Dublin Simon Community will be singing non-stop on Grafton St.

The 21st of December is the longest night of the year, the worst night of the year to be without a home. Dublin Simon Community are asking you to get onboard and play your part in ending homelessness this December 21st. Together we can make a difference and make the longest night of the year more bearable for those experiencing homelessness.

If you are in the Grafton St area, pop over and support a good cause.