Taoiseach Leo Varadkar recently presented the World Public Relations award to legendary broadcaster Charlie Bird for his fundraising efforts.
Following on from the hugely successful “Climb with Charlie” campaign, the fundraising event went on to win ‘Best Not-For-Profit Award’ at this year’s Global Awards.
Public Relations professional and pal of Charlie’s, Paul Allen of Paul Allen and Associates submitted the entry. The PR firm was the lead organiser and communications team behind the initiative.
The initial fundraising goal was €1 million, however, the campaign raised over €3.6 million for two great charities.
Charlie Bird came up with the idea of “Climb with Charlie” following his own diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease to help and show support to anyone suffering a terminal illness and anyone in a dark place with their mental health.
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, speaking on the award said, “Charlie has touched the lives of so many people in Ireland who followed his trusted news coverage over the years.”
“He has given so much to this nation and continues to do so, raising awareness of Motor Neuron Disease and money for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and mental health charity Pieta.”
“Congratulations to Charlie, his wife Claire, their dog Tiger and the whole team behind the hugely successful ‘Climb with Charlie’ campaign on this well-deserved international award.”
Following their long friendship from the RTÉ newsroom, Charlie had asked Paul to be the lead organiser of the campaign.
Commenting on the win, Paul Allen said “The team and I are extremely humbled to be a part of this campaign.”
“After 30 years in business, what better way was to volunteer our time and professional services. Charlie’s passion ignited a nation and this award signifies just that”.
The Dublin Public Relations firm was the only Irish firm to be shortlisted and win in the annual global Public Relations and Communication awards which featured major firms and agencies from over 126 countries including the UK, USA, and Europe.
