The Big Tree project had its inception in 2021 when I spearheaded the formation of a working group to assist in applying for funding from the Arts Council. This funding was intended for projects engaging with young people under its Young People, Children, and Education (YPCE) initiative. Our initial focus was on Transition Year students at Adamstown Community College, and we were thrilled to receive a grant of 90K through a successful application jointly supported by the Arts Council and South Dublin County Council.

My experience as a member of the Big Tree Committee has been incredibly fulfilling. This role allows me to actively engage with the community and initiate projects aimed at creating a more vibrant community.

Over the course of 12 months, we organized various projects in different parts of Lucan, all planned and executed by the teenagers themselves. The success of these initiatives led to the establishment of our Big Tree Committee, comprising both adults and teenagers, making it a unique and dynamic team.