How one student from Athlone turned a simple football match into a movement for hope and recovery
When we talk about change, it always starts with one person who decides to take action.
For us at Social Ground Force (SGF), that person is Erin Hodgins, a third-year student of Applied Social Studies in Social Care at TUS Midlands, Athlone.
In October, Erin organised her first-ever charity event — a Fancy Dress Football Match — to raise funds in support of SGF’s Suicide Prevention and Recovery Network.
“When I discovered the work of Social Ground Force, something truly resonated with me,” Erin says. “Addiction and mental health issues run in my family, and it has always been important for me to talk about them and help as much as we can as a community.”
It wasn’t easy — planning an event for the first time while studying full-time — but Erin made it happen.
“I struggle with anxiety, so it was hard to do everything that was required to pull off such an amazing event,” she shared. “But my family, friends and my boyfriend Oisin helped me every step of the way. My dad, who is my role model and CEO of TBI BICASA Scientific, became the main sponsor, created medals for everyone and spread the word through his company. I’m so grateful — it turned into something truly special.”
Her father was so inspired by the event that he now plans to organise an annual charity initiative supporting addiction and mental health services.
The event brought together students, families and local supporters — and, more importantly, it raised awareness about mental health and the power of community support.
“I am so pleased with the way this event turned out. It was the most beautiful, inspiring, wholesome and healing experience. Everything went the way I hoped. This has been my biggest and most special achievement, and I am so proud of myself and everyone involved,” Erin notes.
Through her leadership and compassion, Erin successfully raised significant funds to support SGF’s work in suicide prevention and recovery — and inspired others to take action in their own communities.
We at SGF believe that Erin is a true role model. She represents the future of positive change — young people who care, take action, and inspire others to do the same.
To support our work or host an SGF event in your community, contact us:
E-mail: socialgroundforce@yahoo.ie
Phone: 086 894 1991
Website: www.socialgroundforce.com
Together we build a stronger Ireland — where no one faces their darkest moments alone.
