Since its establishment in 2003, the Fisher Foundation has supported over 500 people from Fermanagh to volunteer overseas. These grants have made a significant contribution to volunteers and their endeavours, helping to change the lives of people and communities in developing countries across the world while also supporting the personal growth and development of the volunteers themselves.
This year, grants totalling £15,000 have been awarded to a wide range of individuals and organisations undertaking humanitarian and development work overseas.
(L-R) Ann McCann, Fr Brian D’Arcy Trustee of the Fisher Foundation, Ruth McKane, Barny O’Loughlin, Charlotte Wysner and Ernie Fisher Chairman of the Fisher Foundation
Recipients include Charlotte Wysner, who will travel to Cambodia to take part in humanitarian projects, with her award supporting travel and accommodation. Ruth McKane’s award will support travel and accommodation costs for her voluntary work in Gambia.
Several volunteers will work with Mellon Educate in South Africa, including Barny O’Loughlin, Adrian McGovern, and Ann McCann, with their awards covering associated travel and living costs.
Church Mission Society Ireland received a grant to support the deployment of four youth teams to Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Nepal, as well as the training of their leaders. The Leprosy Mission NI will use its award to bring vital healthcare and support to vulnerable communities in rural Nepal.
Volunteers Pat Maguire, Jessica Maguire, and Shane Maguire will participate in African Impact’s Teaching & Community Support Project in Zanzibar. Olivia Maguire will also work with African Impact, contributing to The Girl Impact Project, a gender equality initiative that educates and empowers young girls and women.
(L-R) Fr Brian D’Arcy Trustee of the Fisher Foundation, Shane Maguire, Jessica Maguire, Pat Maguire and Ernie Fisher Chairman of the Fisher Foundation
Katie Thompson will travel to Malawi through the NI Scout Network Team, with her grant supporting her voluntary work. Trócaire received funding to support humanitarian efforts in Somalia, including nutritional relief and the construction of a kitchen facility to safeguard children’s health and education in the Dollow district.
The Fisher Foundation was established in memory of Bertie, Mark and Emma Fisher and aims to contribute to two key areas: motorsport safety initiatives and supporting local people volunteering overseas. The Foundation’s work reflects Bertie and Mark’s passion for rallying and motorsport safety, and Emma’s commitment to international voluntary work. To date, well over £500,000 has been distributed in support of these aims, administered by the Fermanagh Trust.
Ernie Fisher, Chairman of the Fisher Foundation, said: “With our overall aim of providing much-needed financial resources to help those who give their time to assist projects across the world, we are delighted to be in a position to support such excellent work and assist in fostering Fermanagh’s culture of giving and volunteering. It is a privilege for the Foundation to support these inspiring volunteers, wonderful organisations and we wish them every success in their worthwhile projects.”
The closing date for applications to the Fisher Foundation is 28th February annually.
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