Down Special Olympics Club Awarded National Lottery Funding to Champion Inclusion and Community Connection
Down Special Olympics Club is proud to announce it has received vital funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, a grant that will strengthen its work in building inclusive, supportive communities for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Downpatrick and surrounding areas.
The £20,000 funding will support a range of initiatives designed to foster connection, confidence, and belonging, using sport as a vehicle for community engagement, health and personal growth.
A key part of this investment will be the creation of a new Junior Athletes programme specifically for teenagers aged 12 to 16, aimed at helping young people build independence, develop life skills, and grow in confidence during a pivotal stage of their development.
“This is about much more than sport,” said Frank Donnelly, Chairman of Down Special Olympics Club.
He added: “It’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can continue to grow a community whereinclusion isn’t just a goal, it’s a lived reality that builds confidence.
“We welcome anybody with an intellectual disability in Downpatrick and the surrounding areas. We have families that travel from Saintfield and Newcastle to participate in our club.”
The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players to projects that strengthen society, echoed the importance of the club’s mission.
Kate Beggs, Northern Ireland Director of The National Lottery Community Fund said: “We’re delighted to support the Down Special Olympics Club.
“The £20,000 grant will be a big boost, helping bring people together, reduce isolation and build more inclusive communities. We look forward to seeing what will be achieved.
“Funding is available for projects like this, making a difference to communities across Northern Ireland. For more information visit our website:
” https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk .”
Down Special Olympics Club welcomes new athletes, volunteers, and supporters.
For more information follow Down Special Olympics on Facebook.
