8 Cork Businesses Giving Back to the Community

Celebrating Community Heroes: 8 Cork Businesses Giving Back to the Community

Cork’s vibrant community spirit shines bright as local digital marketing company ePresence celebrates local businesses that have gone above and beyond in giving back to the community. These companies are not just providing exceptional services but are making a tangible difference in the lives of Cork residents, from supporting local charities to driving innovative community projects.

The businesses below are finalists in this year’s Cork Digital Marketing Awards ceremony, where the winner will be announced on Friday, 11th October 2024. They are in the ‘Best Use of Digital Marketing for the Greater Good’ category which ePresence Digital Marketing proudly sponsors.

Spotlighting the Finalists:

1. Cork’s 96FM – Giving for Living Radiothon

Since 2008, Cork’s 96FM has partnered with local charities for its “Giving for Living Radiothon,” raising more than €6.5 million to support cancer services across Cork.

This initiative is powered by the generosity of Cork residents through various fundraising events like Coffee Breaks, Jersey Day, and Change Collector boxes. In 2023 alone, this effort raised an incredible €409,178 for cancer services.

“From interviews with those who are currently battling cancer, those who have used the services of our charity partners and footage of events clubs and organisations held to help raise money, the videos we share across our platforms encourage donations by showing exactly how your money is helping.” said a spokesperson from Cork’s 96FM. “We are truly grateful for the generosity of the people of Cork.”

2. Crawford Art Gallery – Crawford Supported Studios

Crawford Art Gallery has championed artists with learning disabilities through Crawford Supported Studios. In collaboration with MTU Crawford College of Art and Design, the gallery provides artists with the space, resources, and opportunities to flourish as professional artists. Their efforts have included organising exhibitions, art commissions, and even designing an election poster for the European Elections 2024.

Crawford Art Gallery’s digital marketing campaign brought this initiative to a wider audience, garnering 80,000 Facebook users’ attention.

“It’s a joy to support this amazing long-term project which not only brings a lot of positive outcomes to the artists involved but enriches the lives of art audiences by bringing them vibrant and brilliant artworks of diverse perspectives.” “ said Dyane Hanrahan, Marketing Manager at Crawford Art Gallery.

3. Crann Centre – Disability Family Support

Crann Centre has been pioneering a unique “2Gen Model of Care,” offering lifelong support to families dealing with neuro-physical disabilities. At their centre in Ovens, Co. Cork, the whole family has access to a team of experts, services & facilities tailored to their needs.

Their 2023 Christmas campaign focused on sharing the journey of one family, resulting in a 260% increase in website visits and over €2,800 in donations—seven times the previous year’s amount.

“We want to tell our clients’ stories in their own voices, creating an authentic and impactful connection with our audience,” explained Louis O’Sullivan, Head of Communications at Crann.

4. Ability@Work – Empowering Employment for People with Disabilities

Ability@Work is a unique person-centred employment service, provided by Cork-based non-profit Cope Foundation that has revolutionised employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities by offering personalised job coaching and creating partnerships with 80+ companies.

Since its inception, the program has helped create 153 paid job opportunities and offers training, upskilling and employment support to over 50 participants each year.

We are trying to address the inequalities and exclusion people face in the recruitment process,” said Marian Hennessy, Ability@Work Manager. “We provide a specialised supported employment service enabling young people to transition into the workplace and find a meaningful career in their communities. Seeing our participants thrive in real jobs is what drives us every day.”

5. Ludgate Hub – Driving Community Innovation in West Cork

Ludgate Hub has been an anchor for digital innovation and community growth in West Cork. Its marketing campaigns have highlighted local businesses through video stories, amplifying their voices while fostering economic and social progress.

“This recognition reflects our dedication to fostering innovation, sustainability, and growth in West Cork, and we are proud to be part of a movement that prioritises the greater good,” said Dr. Katy Wareing, Director of Strategy at Ludgate Hub.

6. Access Credit Union – Supporting Local Businesses

With over 25,000 members in its Skibbereen, Bandon and Schull branches, Access Credit Union has played a vital role in supporting small businesses and local communities. Their campaign featured video series highlighting the efforts of local businesses, helping to bring awareness to their contributions.

“Supporting local communities has always been a core value of Access Credit Union, and we are proud to be recognized for our efforts,” said Valerie O’Driscoll, Credit Control.

7. Field’s SuperValu Skibbereen – Championing Local Producers

Field’s of Skibbereen, a family-owned business since 1935, has focused on supporting local West Cork producers. Their recent video campaign celebrated local suppliers, showcasing the rich variety of fresh produce in the region.

8. Wisetek – Leading the Charge in Sustainable Technology

Though new to the awards, Wisetek has been a leader in promoting sustainability and responsible e-waste recycling, benefiting not only businesses but the environment as a whole.

About the Awards

The ‘Best Use of Digital Marketing for the Greater Good’ Award celebrates local businesses that exemplify the spirit of Cork through their dedicated efforts to support their community. This initiative encourages others to contribute and recognises the outstanding achievements of local businesses in creating lasting positive impacts.

“By supporting this award, we aim to recognise and celebrate the outstanding efforts of businesses that use digital marketing to make a positive difference in our community”, said John Brennan, Director of ePresence.

ePresence was founded in Cork in 2008 by Gillian and John Brennan who have developed a tradition in their agency of supporting local charities and community initiatives – regularly contributing to organisations such as Marymount University Hospital, Cork Simon, UNICEF, and The Rainbow Club Cork Centre for Autism.