Donegal charity and social enterprise Spraoi agus Spórt is asking people across the county and beyond to show their support by voting in the People’s Choice Award at Charities Institute Ireland’s 2026 Charity Excellence Awards.

Spraoi has been named a finalist in three categories: Finance Team of the Year, Fundraising Team of the Year and Charity of the Year. It joins organisations including Concern Worldwide, Irish Cancer Society, Barretstown and Dublin Simon Community among this year’s finalists.

Alongside these three award categories, the public can support Spraoi through the separate People’s Choice Award.

Founded in 2010, Spraoi works to create opportunities and strengthen communities through childcare, disability and inclusion services, family support, youth activities, digital learning and the circular economy. Its work brings people together, supports families and helps people of all ages and abilities take part in community life.

The Spraoi agus Spórt team at last year's Charity Excellence Awards, where they secured the Finance Team of the Year award.

placeholder image — The Spraoi agus Spórt team at last year's Charity Excellence Awards, where they secured the Finance Team of the Year award.

Its social enterprises, including Saothrú Nursery & Garden Centre and Síoraí Circular Economy Hub, generate income that is reinvested into services and opportunities for children, young people, adults and families.

Helen Nolan, Co-Founder and CEO of Spraoi agus Spórt, said reaching the finals in three categories was a proud moment for everyone involved.

“Spraoi has grown over the past 16 years because of the people who are part of it, our staff, volunteers, families, participants and supporters. To see a Donegal charity recognised alongside some of Ireland’s best-known charities is something we can all be proud of,” she said.

“We love sharing the Spraoi story, and our community is at the heart of it. Whether you take part in an activity, shop in Síoraí or Saothrú, volunteer or support our fundraising, you’re helping us make a difference.

“We’d really appreciate people across Donegal and beyond taking a moment to vote for us and sharing the link with family and friends. It would mean so much to everyone involved to bring the People’s Choice Award home to Donegal.”

Voting closes on 29 October 2026. The public can vote for Spraoi at https://bit.ly/4zbnAxX, and all voters will be entered into a draw to win an Amazon Echo Dot.

To learn more about Spraoi agus Spórt and its work, visit www.spraoiagussport.ie.