Five hundred balloons were released into the sky above the Maynooth University campus today in celebration of a new partnership between the Maynooth University Students’ Union (MSU) and the Irish foundation, Soar. The MSU has selected the foundation, which believes every young person should have the opportunity to fulfill their potential, as its Cause of Choice for the 2014/2015 academic year.
Soar creates and delivers early intervention, preventative wellness programs for young people aged 10-18 from all backgrounds within a safe and supportive environment where they are given the opportunity to be themselves, to build emotional awareness, self-confidence, peer respect, self-belief and resiliency.
Speaking about the new partnership, Soar co-founder Karl Swan said he hoped the partnership would help his organisation reach more young people.
“The partnership marks a major milestone for Soar. With the funding and support that Maynooth Students’ Union will be able to offer us, we will be able to reach more young people with life changing programs on self-confidence, resilience and emotional well-being.”
Ben Finnegan, President of Maynooth University Students’ Union, said students were excited to work with Soar.
“Every year the students of Maynooth put in a tremendous amount of effort to support our local community and causes alike. This year we are delighted to be partnered with such a positive and energetic organisation in Soar. Maynooth is unique in that it is Ireland's only University Town and we as students pride ourselves on the fact that we play a key role in creating the unique atmosphere in this wonderful town.
“The student body is relishing the prospects of working together with Soar this year to continue creating that goodwill environment whilst also raising funds for a fantastic organisation"