Our Story
Cairde Le Cheile was established in 2003, inspired by the spirit and success of the Special Olympics. Recognising the need for long-term services and support for people with disabilities in County Donegal, local families and volunteers came together to form an organisation that would continue the momentum long after the Games had ended.
Situated in St. Conal’s Hospital Campus, beside the beautiful Bernard McGlinchey Town Park, our centre has become a permanent base for programmes, activities, and initiatives that bring people together.
Empowering People, Enriching Futures
Meet the dedicated individuals driving our mission forward.
Jimmy Kavanagh
Board Member
Jimmy Kavanagh is a dedicated board member at Cairde Le Cheile clg. Bringing 17 years of experience as an elected Town and County Councillor and 40 years experience in the HSE to support our mission by creating a community where people with disabilities, vulnerable young people and senior citizens are supported, celebrated, and empowered to live full and meaningful lives.
Damien McKay
Chairperson
Damien McKay, Chairperson, is a dedicated board member at Cairde Le Cheile clg. Damien brings over 20 years’ experience as a Business Owner & Chartered Civil Engineer. He has a passion for creating, developing, and improving a living environment for everyone. This is aligned with and supports our mission in creating a community where people with disabilities, vulnerable young people and senior citizens are supported, celebrated, and empowered to live full and meaningful lives.
Alan Dolan
Treasurer
Alan is a dedicated board member at Cairde Le Cheile clg. Bringing 30 years of experience in finance & management to support our mission by creating a community where people with disabilities, vulnerable young people and senior citizens are supported, celebrated, and empowered to live full and meaningful lives.
Taragh Quinlivan
Facilities Manager
Taragh Quinlivan has been Facility Manager at Cairde Le Cheile CLG since 2023. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Law and experience as a Coordinator for road traffic offenders, she combines skills and compassion in her role.
Seamus Campell
Board Member
Seamus Campbell, a board member at Cairde Le Cheile CLG, has over 40 years of nursing experience in learning disability services. He is also a Regional Development Officer with Special Olympics Ulster, promoting healthy lifestyles through sports.
Ciaran Harvey
Board Member
Ciarán Harvey, a committed board member at Cairde Le Cheile CLG, brings over 30 years of experience in Finance, IT, organizational development, and leadership.
Mick Quinlivan
Board Member
Mick Quinlivan, retired Gardaà and founder of Cairde Le Cheile CLG is a dedicated board
member. Bringing 30+ years of experience working within the community and supporting
vulnerable people with learning disability.
Rosaleen Gallagher
Project Co Ordinator
Focused on delivering tailored support and creative solutions.