Celtic Football Club Dine
Out in New York for Charity

“You’ll Never Walk Alone,” the unofficial anthem of Celtic Football Club, was sung loudly and proudly on October 30 at the Celtic FC Foundation’s Inaugural New York Gala Dinner in Manhattan, where they raised an impressive $200,000.

The guest of honor was former Celtic manager, and former Republic of Ireland manager, Martin O’Neill. Hugo Straney, the voice of Irish radio in Canada, emceed the evening, which was hosted in partnership with the Ireland Funds of America, and sponsored by Avolon and Magners.

Celtic FC and its longtime rival Rangers Football Club, both based in Glasgow, are by far the most successful and popular clubs in Scotland. Their rivalry has become deeply embedded in Scottish culture. Celtic FC was founded in 1887 by Brother Walfrid, a Marist priest, with the purpose of alleviating poverty in the East End of Glasgow. The Celtic FC Foundation upholds and promotes the charitable principles and heritage of its founder.

Chair of the Gala Dinner Committee Paul Geaney said, “The goal tonight was to highlight to a new audience the important work the foundation does, to raise money for fantastic new projects the Foundation will deliver, and to add a touch of Paradise to New York.” ♦ Maggie Holland