Galway is well known for its thriving nightlife, but to put the ‘Raise and Give’ back into RAG week, some students are opting for a different kind of buzz.
‘Shave Off’, an event that sees contestants shaving their heads to raise money was an unprecedented success this year, securing vital funding to support those in need. The annual event is organised by the University of Galway Students’ Union, and was just one of the many fundraising events that happened during this exceptional RAG week of 2024.
This year, two charities will benefit from the event, with six brave volunteers raising over five-thousand euro for Cancer Care West, and Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC).
Student’s Union VP for Welfare and Equality Izzy Tiernan was one of the six contestants, who took to Sult’s stage to face the razor on Donegal Tuesday, in an event livestreamed on Instagram.
“I got involved in the Shave-Off through my full-time position in the student’s union, and the want to raise money for our two charities”, said Izzy Tiernan.
“Though there isn’t a set goal collectively on how much we aim to raise, every cent will help and go directly to our charities” they said.
Joining them onstage was SU president Dean Kenny, Union of Students in Ireland VP Aoife Hynes, Gender and LGBTQ+ rights Officer Sava Beekman, Engineering student Seán Meehan, and volunteer Jonathan Breen.
Though RAG week is a long tradition in Galway, this year the SU made it clear they wanted to put more emphasis on the charitable aspect, while also encouraging the craic.
GRCC has worked closely with the Students’ Union in the past, and voiced their deep appreciation for the fundraising efforts of the Union and those donating.
“Over the years, the Students’ Union has consistently championed the cause of the Galway Rape Crisis Centre”, said the organisation in a statement.
“These contributions enable the centre to expand its services, provide crucial support to survivors, and continue its vital work in the community,” they said.
Cancer Care West is a charity providing support to both cancer patients and their families, offering both practical and emotional aids to those affected by the disease.