A Cork mother is taking part in a major run this summer to raise funds for the Rainbow Club in Mahon, which she described as a “lifeline” for her family. The Rainbow Club provides supports and services to more than 1,300 children who have autism and their families every single week. Nicole Kelleher is taking part in the Regeneron Great Limerick Run this May to raise funds for the Mahon charity. Speaking to The Echo, Nicole highlighted the positive impact the Rainbow Club has had for her six-year-old son and her family. “The Rainbow Club has done so much for us as a family, not just for my son. “They provided me with a shoulder when he was going through a rough patch, as well as taking my partner in for one-to-one seasons with my son to help him find techniques that work for us to regulate our little man and bring him back down from major meltdowns. “Honestly, we would have been lost without all their help.” In a statement on her fundraising page, the Cork woman said: “On May 4, I’ll be running to support the Rainbow Club Cork Autism Centre, a place that provides crucial services for individuals who have autism and their families. “The Rainbow Club does incredible work in providing support, resources, and a safe space for those impacted by autism. “Your help means so much to me; this amazing centre has been a lifeline for our family and many others. “I’m doing a six-mile run in support of the Rainbow Club. “My aim is to raise awareness and funds for this amazing charity that does so much for the autism community. “Whether you’re a runner, a supporter, or just passionate about making a difference, you can help make an impact. “A little can go a long way, so I’d love it if we can help the Rainbow Club continue their important work and create more opportunities for the autism community in Cork.” Nicole encouraged people to share her post on social media and spread the word among friends and family. “Every share helps spread the word and make a difference for children and families affected by autism,” she said. To donate, go to https://eventmaster.ie/fundraising/pages/NK72465096. Patrick’s Day at school Students from Ursuline College Blackrock showed their community spirit last week as they took part in St Patrick’s Day celebrations at the School of the Divine Child. In Ballintemple, the School of the Divine Child is a specialist school for students with physical and complex disabilities. Last week, transition-year students from Ursuline College Blackrock’s community care module visited the local primary school to take part in St Patrick’s Day celebrations with the pupils. In a statement, Ursuline College said: “Today, students from our TY community care module got to participate in St Patrick’s Day celebrations with our lovely friends from the School of the Divine Child. “We had the most lovely time, full of laughter, music and love.” Local school in Tesco fund A local primary school is delighted to be included in the Tesco Ireland Community Fund. The fund was launched in 2014 to support good causes in the communities around each of Tesco’s 177 stores throughout Ireland. Every 12 weeks, each Tesco store divides up €2,000 between three causes in its community. Customers decide how their local Tesco Community Fund is shared by voting for their preferred cause by placing the blue token they receive at the checkout in the corresponding donation box. Then, at the end of the 12 weeks, the number of tokens is counted and up to €2,000 is distributed proportionally between three local causes. Scoil na Croise Naofa said the school community is “absolutely thrilled” to be nominated as part of the community fund. “Please vote in store with a recyclable blue token to show your support,” the school said. “Thanks to all at Tesco Mahon Point Shopping Centre for supporting the local community.” Ringmahon host U9s tournament Ringmahon Rangers soccer club recently hosted 50 children for an under-nine soccer tournament. The local club described the event as “highly successful.” “We had over 50 kids, between four U9 teams and an U8 team. The U8s went all the way to the semi-final, so a big ‘well done’ to them. “We had four U9 teams and we ended up with two in the shield and two in the cup. We went on to win the cup and [were] runners-up of the shield. “Well done to Leeside, on winning the shield, and Ringmahon, on winning the cup. “Special mention to Lewis Fitzpatrick, who bagged all six goals in the final.” Mahon Tidy Towns call-out Mahon Tidy Towns has urged members of the community to get involved and keep Mahon clean. The local Tidy Towns group organises regular litter picks and a host of local projects. Last week, Mahon Tidy Towns said it wants more people to join its ranks. The group invited people to “come join Mahon Tidy Towns” at their weekly power hour, every Saturday from 11am. The hour represents the “perfect opportunity to meet new people and build friendships”. “All ages are welcome; under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.” The power hour gets under way at 11am every Saturday at the Mahon Community Centre. Local students enjoy football blitz at Páirc Uí Chaoimh Students from a local secondary school enjoyed a GAA football blitz at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh ahead of St Patrick’s Day. In a statement, Nagle Community College said second-year students from the school enjoyed participating in a Gaelic football blitz at the famous Cork stadium. “Well done to all involved. Thanks to Mr Kelly and Mr Cotter for facilitating and to TY student Charlie for assisting.” Blackrock Castle Observatory refurbishment continues Major refurbishment works at Blackrock Castle Observatory are taking longer than expected to complete, and will result in reduced hours at the local attraction for the coming weeks. The observatory has been closed since February 17, with works under way to refurbish its facilities and exhibit. The observatory was expected to fully reopen on March 15, just in time for the St Patrick’s Day weekend. While the observatory has opened on weekends, management said in a statement that it will “remain closed on weekdays for the coming weeks”. “Unfortunately, refurbishments of BCO have taken longer than expected, and we will remain closed on weekdays for the next few weeks,” they said. “However, we have reopened for weekends at a reduced rate of €5 for all admissions.”