The Calcutta Run launch event for 2023 took place at the Arthur Cox office, at Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, on March 23, with a large turnout.

This year is the 25th run, and the fund-raising target is €400,000, which is ambitious, but organisers want to aim big for the 25th run to help alleviate homelessness.

Over €5 million has been raised over 24 years, helping to support the two partner charities, Peter McVerry Trust (PMV) and The Hope Foundation.

At the launch, Orla O'Connor (Arthur Cox chair and partner) welcomed everyone, and the event MC was journalist Matt Cooper (pictured), who spoke passionately about the cause, in which he was a previous participant.

Cooper hosted a discussion with Brian Friel (Peter McVerry Trust) and Maura Lennon (Hope Foundation) on their various projects and initiatives.

Hope Foundation

The funds from the Calcutta Run fully fund Snehneer Residential Childcare Centre for girls who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS.

The run also fully funds HOPE’s HIVE Emergency Response Units, which deliver 24/7 response to people in dire need – including those affected by trafficking and abuse.

The Run also partially funds Kasba Residential Childcare Centre, where girls under 14 years who have been rescued from bad situations on the street can be kept safe.

Peter McVerry Trust

The money raised enables PMV to support more people out of homelessness and into their own home. Over 12,000 individuals were supported by Peter McVerry Trust in 2022. The charity offers services for families and people with addiction.

Also speaking at the launch event were Mark Garrett (Director General, Law Society), Owen O'Sullivan (managing partner, William Fry), and Maura Derivan (President, Law Society of Ireland), who closed the proceedings.

The Dublin Run takes place on 27 May. People can either walk or run the 5k and 10k routes towards the Phoenix Park, and are welcome to bring children and four-legged friends.

Every participant who raises funds will receive a technical t-shirt, BBQ ticket, and goody bag.

Tag Tournament and Golf Classic

The Rogers Recruitment Calcutta Tag Tournament takes place on 6 May, and the Calcutta Golf Classic on 19 May, to support fund-raising efforts in different ways.

The Cork run will be on 28 May – join a 5k walk/fun run in Blackrock, suitable for all ages and abilities, followed by a free BBQ on the grounds of Blackrock National Hurling Club.

The organisers want this year to be particularly special for the 25th run, and hope many members of the legal profession will join their families and friends to fund-raise together and help alleviate homelessness.

Over 1,200 people took part in 2022, raising an incredible €270,000.