Aware Community Fundraiser Spotlight

There are lots of ways you can get involved and fundraise for Aware and we are always open to new ideas!

The Aware Fundraiser Spotlight series draws attention once a quarter to the broad range of ways people have raised donations for Aware. We are grateful for every donation made and event held to encourage positive conversations around mental health and promote our free services.

These blog posts are intended to spark ideas for your next fundraising effort, whether that is through a corporate event with work or in your local community.

The community in Blackwater near Enniscorthy in Wexford – worked together to raise awareness of mental health through their Odd Socks 5KM through their Odd Sock Fun Run and Walk in Spring 2026.

Their event encouraged participants and supporters through out the community to talk and listen, and be there for one another as a community that strives to talk openly about mental health, as part of a wider ongoing movement working towards lasting change in how society perceives and addresses mental health conditions.

“We wanted people to know that it is safe to speak up, that asking for help is a sign of strength, and that support is always available” – Blackwater Odd Socks Team

The Blackwater Odd Socks Community Fundraiser – raised €9k+ for Aware through a range of three local events engaging the community from a bingo night to a 5k walk and run. These proceeds will go towards the continued deliver of Aware’s free supports, education and information for those affected by depression, bipolar and anxiety across Ireland.

Most importantly their initiative provoked meaningful and positive dialogue throughout their community about mental health, it’s impact and the importance of seeking support when you need it.

A message from the Blackwater Community Fundraisers:

Last November, we lost a dear friend to mental health struggles. This had a profound impact on our local community and, most importantly, on their family and friends.

So many people struggle with their mental wellbeing, or know someone who does. In one way or another, mental health has touched all of our lives.

I knew something had to change. Mental health continues to be a taboo subject, and across Ireland many men in particular fear speaking openly about how they are feeling. Too often, they are told to “man up” or to “just get on with it” rather than being encouraged to speak up about their feelings.

The aim of these fundraisers was to help break the stigma surrounding mental health and to encourage individuals to get talking openly about the tough conversations. We wanted people to know that it is safe to speak up, that asking for help is a sign of strength, and that support is always available.

As a team we came together to organise three separate events, from bingo nights to a 5K run.

The support from the community was incredible. Local businesses and individuals from the community donated prizes, volunteered their time, and offered help in countless ways. Together, we raised an amazing €9,250.

While raising these funds was an achievement in itself. It was amazing to see the compassion, kindness and support shown throughout the community.

During the fundraisers, individuals came forward and told us how they feel more comfortable speaking up about their mental wellbeing. This was the biggest accomplishment of all. The fundraisers had made an impact on breaking the stigma around mental health.

It’s okay not to be okay, and it’s absolutely okay to ask for help. The first step is reaching out. ‎

Fundraising for Aware

Every donation large and small, and every fundraising intitiate is important in raising funds in support of Aware’s model of care but also in promoting positive conversations about mental health and reducing stigma.

• Learn more about the range of ways to get involved and fundraise for Aware here
• If you are in need of urgent help read our information page here.