AADI Announces New “The Lead Out” Fundraising Challenge in Cork City

 
Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI) is delighted to announce the launch of its brand-new fundraising event, “The Lead Out,” taking place across Cork City on Friday, 17th October 2025.  AADI is also proud to confirm Cork Chamber as official partners for the inaugural event.
 
With no government funding, AADI is entirely dependent on public and corporate support to continue its mission. Events like The Lead Out are critical in ensuring the charity can keep saying yes to more families waiting for the life-changing support of an assistance dog.  It has seen a 53% increase in demand for its services in the last two years and has had to turn away two out of 3 applicants this year alone.
 
This unique team-based challenge will see corporate and business teams from across Cork compete in a fun-filled day of tasks and activities at iconic city locations; testing everything from problem-solving and leadership to teamwork and creativity. Each challenge is designed to entertain and inspire, while raising vital funds to help AADI provide more life-changing assistance dogs for autistic children and their families.
 
Why The Lead Out Matters
“Jack is autistic, and the past few years haven’t been easy.  Before, Jack couldn’t cope with the idea of medical tests — he didn’t understand what was happening and would often have emotional outbursts. But Wednesday grounds him. She helps him process emotions and brings his anxiety right down.  Now he’s just… with her. Settled. Safe.” The voice of Tara Power speaking about the transformation Assistance Dog Wednesday has had on her son Jack.
 
David McCarthy, Head of Fundraising & Communications at AADI, said:
 
“The Lead Out is more than just a team challenge – it’s a chance for Cork businesses to showcase leadership, collaboration, and community spirit, all while supporting a cause that changes lives. Just as our assistance dogs help autistic children take the lead in their daily lives, this event invites Cork’s business community to step up, lead out, and help us say yes to more families waiting for support.”
 
Naoimh Frawley of Cork Chamber commented:
 
“Cork Chamber is proud to support AADI with this exciting new event. The Lead Out is a brilliant opportunity for Cork businesses to come together, showcase their teamwork, and support an organisation making such a vital difference in our community. We’re looking forward to seeing the energy and spirit that the business community will bring to the day.”
 
How to Take Part

• Teams of 4–6 people from companies and organisations across Cork are invited to enter.

• Each team pays a registration fee (full details at www.aadi.ie) and commits to raising additional funds through sponsorship and donations.

• On the day, teams will complete a series of challenges at citywide locations, earning points as they go, before gathering at Cork Opera House for the closing awards.

 
About Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland
Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland is a national charity dedicated to transforming the lives of autistic children and their families through the provision of highly trained assistance dogs. Each dog is provided free of charge and offers enhanced safety, independence, and emotional support to the child, while also helping the whole family to re-engage with their community.
 
For more information and to register a team, visit The Lead Out