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Students from the three secondary schools in Castleisland have provided the inspiration for artist Mike O’Donnell’s stunning makeover of Kerry Mental Health Association’s Second Chance Charity Shop in the town. Students were pictured with Kathleen Kennedy (Volunteer and Manager of Second Chance Charity Shop) and Mike O’Donnell (Artist).
SECONDARY students from the three schools in Castleisland have provided the inspiration for artist Mike O’Donnell’s stunning makeover of Kerry Mental Health Association’s Second Chance Charity Shop in the town.
Boys and girls from Presentation Secondary School, St Patrick’s Secondary School and Castleisland Community College created works of art based on the 5 Ways to Wellbeing – Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning and Give.
The renowned Kerry artist, Mike O’Donnell, was commissioned by Kerry Mental Health Association to create a new shop front and sign that would incorporate elements of the students’ artwork.
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The Chair of Kerry Mental Health Association Castleisland & District Branch, Jennifer O’Sullivan Coffey, said: “Our wonderful shop, which is run by Kathleen Kennedy and her fellow volunteers, gives a second chance to the array of items we sell. The funds raised then allow us to help people in our community with mental health challenges and their families and carers.
“When we decided to give our shopfront a second chance, instead of giving it a normal lick of paint, we opted for something eye-catching and relevant to what we do. We were delighted to have the input of the young artists in the three local secondary schools who provided the inspiration for Mike O’Donnell’s final masterpiece. We hope that customers and passers-by will stop and look at the message on our wall which encourages everyone to follow the 5 Ways to Wellbeing as a means of minding their mental health.”
Kerry Mental Health Association has expressed its sincere thanks to the principals, teachers and students at Presentation Secondary School, St Patrick’s Secondary School and Castleisland Community College for taking part in this great mental health initiative.
The charity intends to engage with the schools again for a new project in 2024 with a view to promoting the mental health and wellbeing of the students and their families.
The Board and Management of Kerry Mental Health Association owes a huge debt of gratitude to Kathleen Kennedy and her team of volunteers who have made the Second Chance Charity Shop such a popular destination on the retail circuit in Castleisland.
The shop also acts as a signpost for people in the locality who may require information on how to access the mental health services in the county.
The Second Chance Charity Shop at 105 Upper Main Street, Castleisland is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
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