At your service: Crescent College fundraiser

Crescent College Comprehensive SJ transition year students hosted a unique fundraising dinner on Wednesday 30 April 2025 at Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa in Adare, Co. Limerick. The event saw students take on various food, beverage and event management roles to run the entire event night themselves. The evening was a resounding success and held in support of Milford Hospice, showcasing the spirit of Jesuit education in action. Read the full article below».

A night to remember

On Wednesday, 30th April 2025, the Transition Year students of Crescent College Comprehensive SJ brought months of learning and preparation to life as they hosted a hugely successful fundraising dinner at Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa in Adare, Co. Limerick. The evening was held in aid of Milford Hospice and was the culmination of a unique work experience and skills development programme that saw more than 120 TY students take on training in the hotel’s Banqueting and Food & Beverage departments.

Each student completed two training sessions under the expert guidance of the hotel’s professional staff, gaining first-hand insight into the world of hospitality. From front-of-house etiquette to the fast-paced demands of service and coordination, the students immersed themselves in the experience—learning not only practical skills but also key values of teamwork, service, adaptability, and leadership.

The evening of the dinner was entirely student-led. The TY students were responsible for setting up the venue, welcoming and serving guests, coordinating the entertainment, managing the fundraising elements, and ensuring the seamless execution of the event. Guests—including families, friends, and members of the wider community—were treated to a delicious three-course meal, a dynamic showcase of TY projects and achievements, and a surprise flash mob that brought energy and excitement to the room.

Rather than a traditional raffle, the fundraising aspect of the evening featured a lively and entertaining game of Heads & Tails, hosted by parent JC Gubbins. The game encouraged full audience participation and quickly became one of the night’s highlights. As the game narrowed down to a few final contenders, JC added an exciting twist—offering guests the chance to “buy back in” for a small donation, which significantly boosted contributions to Milford Hospice. After a few high-energy rounds, two generous prizes—both kindly sponsored—were awarded to the delighted winners.

A confident team of student MCs kept the evening flowing smoothly, and the atmosphere was further enriched by the presence of special guests, including members of the Board of Management of Crescent College Comprehensive SJ and the board and management of Milford Hospice.

The event raised over €8,000 of valuable funds for Milford Hospice, a beloved and essential institution that has served the Mid-West region with compassion and excellence since 1928. Offering specialist palliative care, hospice-at-home services, and residential support, Milford Hospice remains a vital resource for families navigating the most challenging times. Supporting such a cause reflects the very heart of the Jesuit ethos embraced at Crescent College—forming “Men and Women for and with Others.” This student-led project stands as a shining example of Jesuit education in action: combining meaningful service with hands-on learning and reflection.

A special note of gratitude must be extended to the Fitzgerald family, whose generosity and hospitality made this project possible. Their commitment to the local community and to youth development was clear throughout, as they and their outstanding team at Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa facilitated both the training of students and the flawless execution of the event. Their support not only allowed students to learn in a real-world environment but created an opportunity for them to contribute back to their community in a tangible and lasting way.

There was a true synergy in this partnership: the hotel benefitted from the presence of energetic and well-prepared student staff, while the students gained invaluable industry experience and even the potential for future employment opportunities—an ideal example of how schools and local businesses can collaborate for mutual benefit.

The vision and success of this event were driven by the dedication and hard work of Mr. Tony Trehy, TY Co-ordinator and the original architect of the project, and Ms. Lisa Bennett Quaid, TY Year Head, who worked tirelessly alongside him to guide and support the students at every step. Their leadership and commitment were instrumental in transforming this ambitious idea into a truly memorable and meaningful occasion. The support of Principal Mr. Diarmuid Mullins and the senior management team of Crescent College Comprehensive SJ was also key to ensuring the project’s smooth implementation and success.

Crescent College Comprehensive SJ is immensely proud of its TY students. Their initiative, responsibility, and enthusiasm made the night a resounding success and demonstrated just how powerful education can be when it reaches beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community.

This wasn’t just a fundraiser—it was a celebration of learning, service, and connection. It was a night to remember.

Brian Cowhey

Teacher

Crescent College Limerick

May 2025