Trustees Annual Report
For the Charity Commission of Northern Ireland
Year: April 2023 – March 2024
I am pleased to present the annual report for the Friends of the Fin charity for the year April 2023 to March 2024. This has been an incredibly busy and rewarding year, during which we have made significant strides in our mission to support St. Mary’s Primary School, Aughlisnafin, and contribute to the advancement of education and development for the children.
Activities and Achievements
Over the past year, the charity has carried out numerous initiatives that have had a direct and positive impact on the school and its students:
1. Fundraising Initiatives
• Through our crowdfunding campaign , we successfully met our fundraising target, which was further boosted by additional contributions from the crowdfunding platform itself. This was a remarkable achievement, thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the collaborative effort of the community.
• Other fundraising events, including charity walks, the Smarties Challenge, raffles , and other school-based activities, provided much-needed financial support to the school.
2. Support for Sporting Activities
• We supplied the school with essential sporting equipment and organised sporting activities , enriching the physical education experience for the students and encouraging an active lifestyle.
3. Ongoing Engagement with the School
• Our charity has maintained continuous engagement with St. Mary’s Primary School, Aughlisnafin by volunteering for various school activities and events, including assisting with graduations, special occasions , and other celebrations throughout the year.
• The support we’ve provided has helped to enhance the school environment, creating memorable experiences for students and staff alike.
Impact and Difference Made
The work carried out by Friends of a Friend has made a tangible difference to the school community:
• Enhanced Resources : The sporting equipment and financial contributions have enabled the school to offer more opportunities for student participation in physical activities, fostering teamwork and confidence.
• Strengthened Community : By organising and participating in fundraising events, we have fostered a greater sense of collaboration among parents, staff, and the wider community.
• Memorable Experiences : Our involvement in school events, such as graduations and celebrations, has helped to create special moments that students will cherish for years to come.
• Financial Relief : The funds raised have supported essential school projects and activities, easing the financial burden on the school and ensuring that resources are directed to where they are most needed.
Looking Ahead
This year, our focus is to continue fundraising through the Friends of the Fin charity and to strengthen our partnership with the trustees. We aim to build on the success of this year’s activities by exploring new and innovative ways to support the school, ensuring that we remain aligned with our mission to advance the education and development of its students.
Acknowledgments
On behalf of the trustees, I extend our thanks to everyone who contributed to our efforts this year. From those who participated in events to those who donated their time, energy, and resources, the support has been invaluable.
We are proud of the progress we have made together and are committed to continuing this vital work in the years to come.
Signed:
Laura Brennan
Chairperson
Friends of the Fin