14/08/2026
Thank you, Dorothy 💚
After six years with Fréa, we are saying a very big thank you and farewell to our Development Manager, Dorothy Lynch, as she moves on to her next chapter.
It is difficult to capture everything Dorothy has contributed during those six years.
When Dorothy joined us, Fréa’s fundraising was still developing. Today, we have a growing and ambitious fundraising programme, a stronger network of supporters and businesses, and successful initiatives that bring people together while raising vital funds for vulnerable Irish and Irish Traveller communities across the North of England.
Dorothy has been instrumental in making that happen.
She has built relationships across the Irish community, business networks and professional circles, bringing supporters together, opening doors and creating opportunities for people to connect with Fréa and the difference our work makes.
She has also helped develop initiatives that have become part of Fréa’s identity.
The Big Irish Breakfast has grown into a wonderful community fundraising opportunity across the UK and beyond.
The Fréa St Patrick’s Day Ball raised more than £57,000 in its inaugural year in 2025 and over £66,000 in 2026, bringing together hundreds of supporters for an evening of Irish culture, celebration and generosity.
Dorothy has also been central to developing the Women of Irish Heritage Network, creating a space for women across Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool to build professional connections, friendships and community. Its annual Peak The Reek fundraising trek has captured the imagination and hearts of participants.
But perhaps Dorothy’s greatest achievement is less easy to quantify.
She has helped Fréa build relationships, helping people understand who we are, why our work matters and why supporting vulnerable people within our Irish communities matters.
We are incredibly grateful for her energy, creativity, commitment and, above all, her belief in Fréa and the people we support.
As we recruit our new Head of Fundraising & Development, we are looking for someone who can build on the foundations Dorothy has established and take Fréa’s fundraising to the next level. That is a testament to the strength of what she leaves behind.
Ant Hanlon, Chair of Fréa, said: “From everyone connected to the three partner charities and our wider networks, a massive THANK YOU Dorothy, for six years of relentless hard work, imagination, commitment and friendship. We wish you every success and happiness for the future, and we hope you will always feel that you are part of the Fréa family.”
Go raibh míle maith agat, Dorothy. 💚💚
