The idea
Donnycarney Summer Project was created in 2025 by local parents who wanted to provide safe, engaging, and affordable summer activities for children in the community.
In 2026, we will run a two-week structured programme during the last two weeks of July for children aged 7–14. Activities will include sports, games, day trips, outdoor adventures, and learning-based experiences—all designed to boost confidence, teamwork, and wellbeing.
On the final Friday of the programme, we will host a Community Day in Maypark, Donnycarney, open to all local families. This event will feature music, food, games, and children’s entertainment, providing a fun way to celebrate the end of the summer programme while bringing the wider community together.
Our aim is to make the programme and event accessible, inclusive, and affordable, so that every child can participate, regardless of their circumstances.
What we'll deliver
- Daily structured activities: sports, games, arts & crafts, outdoor learning workshops
- Team-building and confidence-boosting exercises
- Materials and resources for creative and educational activities
- Visits to Hidden Valley, Clara Lara, Carlingford Adventure Centre, and Discover Park
- Transport, entry fees, and supervision included
- 3 gazebos for activity stations and shaded seating
- 20 tables and 60 chairs for food, crafts, and games
- Sound system and generator for music and announcements
- Entertainment: face painting, games, and prizes for children
- Public liability insurance covering programme and Community Day
Why it's a great idea
Supporting this project will bring tangible, positive impacts to children, families, and the wider Donnycarney community:
1. Safe, Structured Summer Activities for 40 Children
• Children aged 7–14 will enjoy daily sports, arts, games, and educational workshops in a supervised environment.
2. Access to Day Trips and Adventure Experiences
• Visits to Hidden Valley, Clara Lara, Carlingford Adventure Centre, and Discover Park provide memorable experiences that many families could not otherwise afford.
3. Community Connection and Inclusion
• The final Community Day in Maypark will bring families together, fostering stronger bonds and a sense of belonging.
4. Physical and Mental Wellbeing
• Activities encourage physical activity, teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
5. Support for Families Facing Financial Barriers
• The programme is free to participants, ensuring all local children have equal access to summer activities.
6. Volunteer and Community Engagement
Steps to get it done
- Fundraising & Budgeting: Raise funds and allocate budget for equipment, activities, trips, and refreshments
- Volunteer Recruitment: Recruit volunteers and assign clear roles and responsibilities
- Fundraising & Budgeting: Raise funds and allocate budget for equipment, activities, trips, and refreshments
- Volunteer Training: Provide guidance on child safety, supervision, and activity coordination
- Programme Planning: Finalise a structured schedule of daily activities, trips, and events
- Project Delivery: Run the Summer Project, delivering safe, inclusive, and engaging activities for children
- Monitoring: Oversee daily operations, ensuring safety, participation, and smooth running of activities
- Evaluation: Gather feedback from children, parents, and volunteers to assess success
- Project Close: Review outcomes, complete reporting, and store equipment for future use
