Charities in the MidWest are hailing a “game changing” funding boost from one of Clare’s largest employers.
To mark the 35th anniversary of Shannon Aerospace, diaspora of past and present employees are raising funds for vital local services ahead of a reunion event later this month.
Shannon Aerospace was established by Lufthansa and Swissair in 1990 and the Aircraft Maintenance Company, which has employed over 3,000 people since then is now owned by Atlantic Aviation.
Many of the former employees are now leaders in the aviation industry themseleves and as a way of giving back on their 35th anniversary, they’ve chosen to support five local charities and have smashed their initial target of €150,000.
Organising Committee Chairperson and CEO of Shannon Technical Services Ben Whelan says the reunion is a chance to have fun and give back.
John Lyons is PRO of Bunratty Marine Search and Rescue, which is one of beneficiaries and he says it’s a gamechanger for their service.
Shannon Aviation Museum, Pieta House, Limerick Suicide Watch and Milford Hospice are the other chosen charities.
Milford Hospice plans to use the latest funds to upgrade their vehicle fleet and call-ball systems.
Fundraising Manager Ann-Marie Hayes says such initiatives have also helped them to significantly improve their satellite hub in Ennis.
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