A Community’s Unyielding Support for the Hope Centre
The 2025 Hope and Dream 10 run has once again proven to be a remarkable display of community spirit in Wexford, raising an impressive €174,391.35 for the Hope Centre. This annual event, held in Enniscorthy on the first Sunday of April, has become a cherished tradition that brings together thousands of participants and supporters.
For the past 14 years, the streets of Enniscorthy have transformed into a vibrant celebration of hope and resilience. The event is not just about running; it’s about raising essential funds for the Hope Cancer Support Centre, which provides a wide range of free services to individuals diagnosed with cancer and their families.
Race Director Michael Jordan has been instrumental in the growth of this event since its inception. He recalls how it began as a modest fundraiser with a goal of making €5,000. However, what started as a one-time event quickly evolved into something much larger due to the overwhelming support from the community.
“It started off 14 years ago as an idea to run it once as a fundraiser, and maybe make €5,000, and be very grateful for that. But it just took on a life of its own because so many people are touched by cancer and they wanted to support the Hope Cancer Support Centre. And before we left that day, people were saying ‘that was incredible, guys, you’ll have to do it next year.’ So that’s why how it’s been and the appetite is there for us,” he said.
Over the years, the event has raised over €2 million, far exceeding initial expectations. Michael compares the growth of the Hope Centre to an acorn growing into a mighty oak tree. “You start off with something modest, and if it works, you build on it. And this, this has worked.”
This year’s fundraising total saw a significant increase, with a €30,000 jump compared to last year. Despite the financial success, the team remains deeply moved by the dedication of participants who return year after year.
The event attracted 1,575 registrations, with 1,171 taking part in the 10Km race, 196 in the 10 Mile, and 208 joining the virtual event. The sheer scale of the event requires the efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers, known as the ‘Dream Team,’ who work tirelessly from early morning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Michael emphasized the importance of teamwork, noting that around 200 people contribute to the event’s success. “It’s all down to teamwork. We have an amazing – we call it the ‘Dream Team.’ And it is absolutely that, we have a uniquely dedicated group of volunteers.”
While specific names could not be mentioned due to the long list of contributors, special recognition was given to Administration Manager Denise McDonald and Becky Shortall, who play a crucial role in organizing the logistics of the event.
The event also faced challenges during the pandemic, prompting the team to introduce a virtual option. This innovative approach allowed participants from around the world, including Australia, China, America, UK, Germany, and Portugal, to take part and send photos of themselves wearing the Hope Centre t-shirts.
Despite the emotional nature of the event, where many participants have personal connections to cancer, the focus remains on celebrating each individual’s journey. “It’s hugely emotional. And I think, because I’ve been there and so many other people have been there for many years, you learn to read – you know the expressions on people’s faces.”
Businesses and local residents also play a vital role by decorating their homes and cheering runners along the route, adding to the positive atmosphere of the event.
The funds raised through the Hope and Dream 10 run are critical for the Hope Centre, as government funding only covers a fraction of the costs. With increasing demand for services, the centre has plans to expand its facilities, aiming to move to a larger greenfield site that will serve the community for decades to come.
The centre offers a wide range of services, including assessment and support, counselling, reflexology, massage, lymphoedema treatment, children’s counselling, and more. In 2024, they delivered 3,670 sessions to 590 clients.
As preparations begin for the 2026 event, the community remains committed to supporting the Hope Centre and its mission. The event continues to grow, driven by the unwavering support of the people of Wexford.