RAG week 2024 was one of the busiest in terms of fundraisers, as the Students Union’s pledge to put the ‘Raise and Give’ back into RAG was a roaring success.
Though always a fundraising event, RAG week often gets dismissed as an excuse for students to party. But according to the charities benefitting, the activities go a long way.
From Shave Off to the Tumbling Paddies, this year’s partners Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC), and Cancer Care West will benefit greatly from the charity events.
GRCC is a Galway based charity that has worked closely with the SU in the past, whether through fundraising, or raising awareness around sexual assault.
Founded in 1984, GRCC’s mission is to lessen the impact of sexual assault and offer counselling to those affected, running a 24/7 support service.
As well as this, they have worked closely with the Student’s Union in the past, to raise awareness for the support that is available.
In a statement, the GRCC voiced their appreciation for the work that the SU has done to raise money, especially over RAG Week.
“The funds raised during RAG Week and the awareness generated have had a tangible impact on the Galway Rape Crisis Centre,” said the GRCC in a statement.
“RAG Week has become a cornerstone of fundraising efforts, providing students with a platform to showcase their creativity and innovation in fundraising,” they said.
The colourful array of events that the SU and students worked together to put on saw the SU comfortably beat the previous years’ funds raised.
The creativity and innovation behind the activities was also effective in promoting RAG week, with social media filling up with footage from the numerous events.
Whether the RAG run (where participants jogged in superhero costumes), or the livestreamed ‘Shave Off’ the two charity partners were given great promotion, which GRCC say is crucial.
“By raising awareness throughout the student community, the Students Union provides students with the opportunity to reach out to GRCC and access the services they need”, said the GRCC.
Dean Kenny, SU President took part in the Shave off, joined by VP for Welfare and Equality Izzy Tiernan and four others, shaving their heads and raising 500 euro each.
Mr Kenny expressed his eagerness to bring the focus back to the fundraising, and commented on the importance of RAG to the University community.
“It will be a fantastic week, of bringing people together and doing something tangible for the collective good of our community,” said Dean Kenny.
