Salthill Knocknacarra GAA (SKGAA ) is proud to announce a new partnership with Galway Rape Crisis Centre (GRCC ), with new signage now in place at the club in support of the centre’s work.
The signage was funded by Eoin Murray, Pitch Director of SKGAA, and a business associate, who wanted to help raise awareness of GRCC and the full range of work it does. Founded in 1984, GRCC is the largest rape crisis centre outside Dublin. It provides professional, confidential counselling and support to people affected by sexual violence and abuse, and also works through advocacy, awareness raising and education to challenge the tolerance of sexual violence in society.
The signage was officially unveiled at the club last Friday, attended by club Chairman Gerry Halloran, PROs Julie Anne De Brún and Ailbhe Niland, and Eoin Murray, together with GRCC’s Executive Director Cathy Connolly, Susan Costello, Development Manager and Education & Training Manager Gráinne Kelehan.
Speaking at the event, Eoin Murray said: “I have seen first-hand the incredible work and support that Galway Rape Crisis Centre provides, and I wanted to do something practical to support them. If this signage lets even one person know that help is available, it will have been worthwhile. I’m proud that SKGAA is standing behind GRCC.”
Club Chairman Gerry Halloran said that Salthill Knocknacarra GAA is about more than games.
“It’s about looking out for each other and being a positive presence in the community. We’re grateful to Eoin for making this possible, and we’re delighted to be working with GRCC so that our members know where to turn for support, and how to respond when someone reaches out.”
Cathy Connolly, Executive Director of GRCC, said people often think of us only as a crisis service, and counselling and support remain at the heart of what we do.
“However, our work also focuses on prevention through education. GRCC’s Education Department continues to grow, delivering workshops and training to a wide range of groups, from primary and secondary school students to charities and corporate organisations.
“Through this work, we raise awareness of sexual violence, explore its many forms, promote understanding of consent and challenge harmful attitudes, helping to build a safer society where sexual violence can be prevented.
“Partnerships with community organisations like SKGAA are an important part of this work. We’re very grateful to Eoin, his business associate and everyone at the club for their support, and look forward to working together.”
Anyone affected by sexual violence or abuse can contact the GRCC Helpline on 1800 355 355 (Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm ) or visit www.galwayrcc.ie
