‘Walk with JOSEPH’
We are delighted to share some news about aN ABILITY WEST fundraiser!
Joseph Faulkner in Greenview Services is DOING A 5k SPONSORED WALK on Thursday, 5th June 2025 AT 10.00 AM.
Joseph has been supported by Ability West for the past 20 years. At 19, he developed a rare condition that left him with an irreversible visual impairment. Now, he’s taking on an incredible challenge to give something back, particularly for the persons who attend Greenview: Joseph is walking 5 kilometres to raise €10,000 for Greenview Day Services—the centre he attends regularly.
The funds raised will go towards installing a much-needed sensory room* at Greenview. Sensory equipment can be life-changing for individuals with disabilities, but it's also very expensive. This new space will offer therapeutic benefits and enrich the daily lives of the people supported at that Day Service.
But Joseph’s walk is about more than just fundraising. He’s also on a mission to raise awareness about accessibility challenges in Galway—from uneven footpaths and limited inclusive spaces to the lack of accessible public transport. He’s especially passionate about encouraging all road users to keep walkways clear, which can be a serious hazard for those with visual impairments.
Walk with Joseph is a community event, and everyone is welcome to take part. The walk begins at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 5th, starting at New Horizons in Tirellan Heights and finishing at Greenview Day Services on Snipe Avenue. We’re inviting Ability West staff, supported individuals, and the wider community to join Joseph on this inspiring journey.
Let’s walk together—for inclusion, awareness, and change.
We’ve got an idonate page set up where you can donate to this fundraiser which is https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/WalkwithJoseph
Watch Joseph’s video above as he starts his training for the walk - we will publish more updates as he continues his training!
*Sensory Rooms:
Sensory rooms offer significant benefits for individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing a calming and stimulating environment to reduce stress, improve focus, and foster social interaction. They help individuals learn to regulate their sensory experiences and develop coping skills, leading to better overall well-being and these are the key benefits:
Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Improved Focus and Concentration
Social Interaction and Engagement
Sensory-Motor Skill Development
Cognitive Development
Managing Challenging Behaviours
Developing Coping Skills
Building Confidence and Self-Esteem