Galway RCC

Students’ Union Announce Charity Partners

University of Galway Students’ Union today announced their charity partners for the 2024/25 academic year who are Galway Rape Crisis Centre and Galway Autism Partnership. The Union will be holding fundraising events throughout the year on behalf of the two charities.

Students’ Union President Faye Ní Dhomhnaill said: “We are very excited to raise much needed funds for these two amazing charities. Over the academic year our events will help our students and staff to feel part of the University community, volunteer, have fun and keep active while fundraising.”

Cathy Connolly Executive Director of Galway Rape Crisis Centre said: “We really appreciate the continued support of the student body. This initiative will help us to offer counselling to our crisis clients impacted by sexual violence and reduce our waiting list. We look forward to the year ahead.”

Máire Bríd Ní Chonghaile of Galway Autism Partnership, commented: "On behalf of the board of trustees, all our members, service users & everyone at Galway Autism Partnership I would like to say how grateful we are to be selected as one of this year's University of Galway Students’ Union nominated charities. This brings with it such wonderful opportunities for GAP to deliver further supports & services to individuals & families.

PICTURED (Left to Right): Tom Forde, Faye Ní Dhomhnaill, Chloe Anderson and Julieanne Ní Mhullaoidh (University of Galway Students’ Union)

Notes about the University of Galway Students’ Union 2024/25 Charities:

Galway Rape Crisis Centre is dedicated to providing a professional, caring and confidential counselling and support service for those in our community affected by sexual abuse and sexual violence.

Galway Autism Partnership aims to improve the quality of life for autistic people and their families by providing and facilitating quality peer support, information, social activities, training and education.

🌟 Launch Announcement 🌟
What would you do if somebody disclosed a negative sexual experience to you?
Knowing the right thing to say or do in that moment can be tough—so Start Here.

This September, Galway Rape Crisis Centre were at the launch of the 'Start Here' campaign on the University of Galway campus, a collaborative effort with Active* Consent and GRCC, aimed at giving people the basic skills and information needed to handle a disclosure.
"I believe you" are the three most important words you can say to someone who's had a negative sexual experience—especially if you're the first person they’ve told.

In partnership with @ActiveConsent, @usi.ie, and @edi_uniofgalway.
#StartHere #Consent #Support

CULTURE NIGHT
🎙️ Panel Discussion: The Role of Social Media in Shaping Young People’s Perspectives on Sex
🗓️ Date: Friday 20th September
🕒 Time: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
📍 Location: Galway Rape Crisis Centre H91EA03
📅 40th Anniversary Celebration: Join us for cake and music from 8:30 PM - 9:30 PM

🧠 Discussion Overview:
Explore the influence of social media on youth views and experiences regarding sex. Our expert panel will delve into both positive and negative impacts, covering topics like body image, self-esteem, and the role of social media in sex education.

✨ Discussion Points Include:

Influence on Perceptions: How social media shapes young people's understanding of sex and relationships.
Body Image & Self-Esteem: The impact of online pressures on youth mental health.
Positive Education: Using social media for healthy sex education and promoting inclusive messages.
Creating Safe Spaces: Strategies to protect young people online and ensure safe discussions.
🗣️ Meet the Speakers:

Eoghan Cleary
Jeniffer Nonnan
Eve McDowell
Deirdre Ronan
🗓️ Event Format:

Panel Presentations: 10 minutes each.
Q&A Session: 15 minutes to engage directly with the speakers.
🎉 Join us afterwards to celebrate our 40th anniversary with cake and music! We’d love for you to stay and connect with us.

📍 Mark your calendars and don’t miss this insightful discussion!
RSVP today!
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