Stories
November 26, 2022 • 2 min read
"Seeing the poverty for yourself really puts things in perspective. I knew from then that I wanted to help GOAL once I got back to Ireland."
Gus Ahern spent years protecting the people of Limerick as a guard. After two visits to Kolkata, India he has put his energy into helping the world’s poorest communities.
Having spent years as a guard and building a successful business in the Architectural Technology industry, Gus wanted to give back to those less fortunate than himself.
Life-changing trip to India
In the 1990’s, Gus travelled to the slums of Kolkata, along with GOAL founder John O’Shea. This first-hand experience has stuck with him ever since. “Seeing the poverty for yourself really puts things in perspective” he says. “I knew from then that I wanted to help GOAL once I got back to Ireland”.
Since his return, Gus has used his connections to raise over €100,000 for GOAL through events and personal donations. In 2005, Gus set up the first GOAL Mile in his native Limerick. Based on the Limerick University track, the event raises thousands of euro.
As well as the GOAL Mile Gus has been involved in numerous other GOAL fundraising events and has been a regular donor to the organisation. Even when the recession of the late 2000’s impacted his business, he remained committed to helping those less fortunate than himself.
Helping those less fortunate
“The GOAL Mile is a very special event and it receives huge support in Limerick every year. Not only is it an important fundraiser for GOAL but it brings people together over the Christmas period and is the perfect time for us to reflect on those not as fortunate as us.”
‘Without volunteers and aid workers, the developing world will struggle. Volunteers are essential to making things happen in poorer countries and I am proud to be associated with GOAL and to have played a part in helping those less well off than me.”
Gus has since retired from An Garda Siochana, but continues to organise his local GOAL mile every year with his son.
You can join Gus in this year’s GOAL Mile and help raise vital funds for vulnerable communities across the globe.
