A day in the life - Supporting Dublin Simon Community.

The CCD’s charity committee member and blog author, Theresa Gorman, with a representative from Dublin Simon Community.

When I joined The CCD in 2022, I wanted to get involved in internal groups that contribute positively to the wider community. I became a member of both The World Around Us and the charity committee, motivated by a desire to support local communities in Dublin.

I arrived in Dublin with a job, a two-week Airbnb booking and not knowing a soul! One of the things that struck me upon my arrival was the visibility of homelessness. It quickly became clear that many people are not in this situation due to poor choices, but because of circumstances such as the lack of available housing, rising rents or simply not having had the opportunities in life that allow for the stability many of us take for granted.

So, when our charity of the year came up for selection once again, I nominated Dublin Simon Community and was delighted when they were selected. The charity is selected through a staff-led nomination and voting process, so to have my charity chosen was really special.

We later invited Dublin Simon Community to speak with staff about their work, the challenges they face, and the individuals they assist. It was inspiring to see such strong engagement from colleagues. Hearing directly from one of their clients about his personal journey, which thankfully had a positive outcome, was particularly impactful.

Throughout the year, I’ve been privileged to contribute in various ways. I volunteered at their centre on the quays, where beds and safe spaces are provided alongside the support needed to help individuals move towards independent living. The facility itself was welcoming and thoughtfully designed, bright, modern and uplifting. Following a tour, we spent the day preparing additional rooms, moving boxes and organising storage to free up space in the rooms.

Fundraising also played a big role during the year. In August, I organised a quiz at our staff summer BBQ, which proved both enjoyable and successful. In October, some of our more energetic colleagues took part in the Dublin Simon Community 5km Home Run in Phoenix Park. While running is not my strength, (I run like the winded) I was happy to cheer them on during a beautiful morning that delivered another strong fundraising result.

December brought the return of my self-made advent calendar jumper, now something of an annual tradition. Despite having only 24 pockets to sell, it raised €300 this year, a record!

We also invited staff to assemble care packs during what is already an expensive time of year, and once again, their generosity did not disappoint and an amazing contribution of snacks and water from CCD Hospitality.

Overall, it has been a pleasure to support Dublin Simon Community. It’s been a rewarding and meaningful year, one of the most impactful in terms of what we have collectively been able to contribute.

As a final thought, if you pass someone experiencing homelessness, don’t ignore them, a simple smile or greeting can make a difference to their day. Kindness costs nothing.

Theresa Gorman, member of The CCD's charity committee.