Youth of Strabane raise over £20,000

A GROUP of kindhearted teenagers from Strabane have raised an amazing £20,000 for charity over the last four years, with a celebration event planned this weekend to mark the milestone.

The fundraising has been the brainchild of 15-year-old Corin Kelly Herron.

His latest fundraising endeavours saw him set out in January this year to raise £10,000 for the Foyle Hospice.

Corin then got in touch with his friends to support him with his campaign.

Since January Corin and his team have taken part in door-to-door collections, a car wash, bingo, community fun day and even a number of skydives as well as raffles.

The Strabane teen has been supported in his fundraising endeavours by 14-year-old Colt McCay, with both being iwill ambassadors for UK Youth.

As well as fundraising both teenagers volunteer with the local Community Rescue Service and YouthAction NI.

The people of Strabane will know of the great work these young people have done over the past four years from delivering care packages, helping out with community floods, volunteering at events, checking lif rings on the river and fundraising for charities.

Due to their success and commitment, UK Youth and YouthAction NI invited both Corin and Colt to meet Prime Minster Rishi Sunak earlier this year for lunch at 10 Dowing Street to talk about the work in the community.

Corin and Colt have also delivered programmes in primary schools across Northern Ireland, spreading positive messages to over 200 young people about the importance of volunteering as well as altruism.

"Young people will get more inspiration, listening to other young people and hearing our stories," Corin said.

"Fundraising gives me so much pride in helping others and gives me that feel good feeling."

Corin feels that it’s vital to thank those who have supported him over the past seven months and will be hosting a celebration event on Friday at the Railway Bar at 7pm, which will include food, guest speakers and a live draw.

Everyone is welcome to come along.

Corin and his supporters have no plan in stopping either and they already are thinking about their next charity to support.

They are also working in partnership with a new idea which will be developed over the next 18 months.

Both Corin and Colt are an inspiration to young all young people.

Their commitment and passion has enabled them to achieve their fundraising goals with YouthAction NI praising their can-do attitude.

“These two young people have so much inspiration and a will to help others," a spokesperson said.

"We have been supporting both Corin and Colt and hope their work in the community will inspire others.

"Usually we listen to stories of young people involved in anti-social behaviour, standing in street corners and underage drinking and so on, but there are young people in the community willing to make positive changes within their community.

"Both Corin and Colt lead the way and they are hoping that more young people will follow them."