Dash, Dance or Prance for Aware in Kildare this Christmas

Aware, along with Cadbury, is urging the people of County Kildare to 'Dash, Dance or Prance' to raise funds for its services this Christmas.

People in the county, as well as all over the country, are being encouraged to come together physically or virtually to be part of the 17th annual Aware Christmas 5K, in order to support Aware’s vital services.

According to the charity: "You can walk, jog, run or hike in your favourite 5k route anywhere in the country at a time of your choice over the event weekend, and share your efforts and your support on social media using the hashtag #WeAreAware.

"Those who want to get into the festive spirit of the Aware Christmas 5K are encouraged to dress up, so whether it’s a nod to Santa with a hat, a Christmas jumper to keep you warm, or a full-on costume with bells and lights, you’ll be guaranteed to bring some fun to your run!"

Speaking about the news, Stephen Butterly, Head of Fundraising at Aware, said: "By taking part in the Aware Christmas 5K, you can raise vital funds to help us be there for the hundreds of thousands of people across Ireland impacted by depression and bipolar disorder.

"It’s so important that we all look after our mental health.

KILDARE: Good news as Family Resource Centre in Newbridge is expanding in €1m project

Tribute to first female to be commissioned in Defence Forces who worked in Kildare

"So, taking the time to walk or run or your own, with family or friends, this December, will give people the chance to take a break from the busy pre-Christmas period whilst also helping people in their community who need some support."

Commenting on the partnership, which is now in its 6th year, Senior Brand Manager with Cadbury Ireland, Úna Morrison said: “We are delighted to continue our support for the Aware Christmas 5K.

"Many of our teams will be taking part and we are encouraging everyone to be part of something special that will make a real difference to people’s lives this Christmas.

"Over the years that we have partnered with Aware we have seen just how valuable their work and support is.

She added: "We look forward to seeing people all over the country taking this opportunity to get out and get active, while supporting a very important cause."

Corporate organisations are also encouraged to get involved, with the event providing a fun way to bring the team together this Christmas, while supporting an important cause.

Online registration is now open at a cost of €25 per person.

Each participant in the 5K will receive a custom medal that doubles as a Christmas tree decoration, in addition to a treat from event sponsor Cadbury.

Aware's Christmas 5K medal decoration

If you are impacted by depression, bipolar disorder or other mood related conditions, you can contact Aware’s free support line 7 days a week from 10am to 10pm on 1800 80 48 48.

The annual Aware Christmas 5k is one of the charity’s most important fundraising events of the year.  

Established in 1985, Aware is the national organisation providing free support, education, and information for people impacted by depression, bipolar disorder, and related mood conditions.

It said that in 2021, 29,000 people directly benefited from Aware’s support services, and a further over 8,000 people took part in education programmes facilitated by Aware.

For more information on Aware or to register for their 2022 virtual Christmas 5K fundraiser, visit aware.ie/christmas5k.

The 5K will take place from Friday, December 9 to Sunday, December 11, 2022.