On Sunday, 21st September, on a beautiful autumn day at Airfield Estate, LauraLynn welcomed families, staff, volunteers, and friends, both past and present. The special event marked a historic milestone: 100 years of unwavering care, tracing the journey from the early days of the Children’s Sunshine Home to the LauraLynn of today.
You could hear laughter and music all across Airfield as families spent the afternoon enjoying everything from butter churning and crafts to storytelling and face painting. It was a day planned to create new memories while honouring those of the past, bringing together the generations who have been part of this incredible story.
The heart of the celebration featured poignant reflections on this century of care. Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, spoke of the enduring ethos that has defined the organisation since its inception, quoting founder Dr. Ella Webb’s determined words from 100 years ago: "I don't care what state the country is in. Children need help, and I am going to help them."
Kerry explained that this single promise has been the driving force ever since, pushing the organisation to constantly find new ways to support children and their families as their needs have changed over the decades.
A highlight of the day was the Tree Planting Ceremony. Led by Chairperson, Sandra O’Malley, the tree was planted by three people who represent the pillars of our community: our longest-standing volunteer, Agnes Fennell; our longest-serving staff member, Olive Egan; and Denise Mason, representing the tireless fundraising of the Ladies Appeals Committee. The tree stands as a living monument to a century of growth and a promise of continued care for the future.
The celebration was a thank you to every single person who has carried the light for the last century. It was a beautiful, joy-filled day that proved one thing above all: this legacy was never about one person, but about a community. And that community is stronger than ever.
