Drive Into Light charity car run to support AWARE NI
Motoring enthusiasts from across Northern Ireland are set to take part in an overnight charity car run ending at sunrise this summer, raising funds and awareness for local mental health charity AWARE NI.
Drive Into Light, taking place on Saturday 27 June, will begin at 11pm at Altnaveigh House in Newry - home to AWARE NI’s weekly peer support group - before travelling through Monaghan and past Dundalk, finishing on the beach as the sun rises.
Designed to symbolise the journey from darkness into light, the event aims to highlight hope, connection and the importance of mental health support within local communities.
Open to all vehicle types - from fiestas to Ferraris, vans to motorbikes - organisers hope the event will bring together car enthusiasts, families and local communities for an important cause.
The event is being organised by Brian Campbell and Kelly McIlvaney from the Petrolhedz car community, with proceeds supporting AWARE NI, the depression charity for Northern Ireland.
Brian Campbell said: “Mental health is something that affects everyone, and we wanted to create an event that brings people together through a shared passion while also encouraging important conversations around mental health and wellbeing.
“The idea behind Drive into Light is about moving from a dark period towards brighter times, with support and hope along the way. We’re really looking forward to seeing the community come together behind such an important cause.”
AWARE NI provides free, peer-led support groups across Northern Ireland for people living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and related mood conditions.
Lesley Wright, Community and Events Officer at AWARE NI, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Brian, Kelly and everyone involved in organising Drive into Light in support of AWARE NI.
“At a time when demand for mental health support continues to grow, community fundraising events like this play a hugely important role in helping us continue providing free and immediate support within local communities.
“The event’s message of hope, connection and support reflects exactly what AWARE NI aims to provide for people every day.”
Registration costs £20 and includes a breakfast snack at sunrise.
For more information or to register, visit: register.enthuse.com/ps/event/DriveIntoLight2026