Make the Moove - Who We Are
History
2018
Planting the seeds
The concept for Make the Moove was born in North Tipperary Macra, driven by the need for local mental health support in the farming community. With the help of fellow Macra club members, local farmers John Keane and Jonathan Dwyer led the early development of the initiative.
2018-2019
First steps with Healthy Ireland
With sessions supported by Healthy Ireland, Make the Moove began creating awareness and building foundational mental health resources for rural communities.
2022
Expanding outreach and building resources
In October, the program piloted mental health training for students at local agricultural colleges, with funding from Mental Health Ireland and facilitation by Teagasc. This year also saw the development of practical farmer toolkits, offering a new layer of support on the farm.
2023
A new identity
To reflect its national scope and evolving mission, the program rebranded in September, reinforcing its commitment to rural mental health.
2024
Online presence and program development
In February, the Make the Moove website launched, increasing access to resources and training information. Following the Macra national AGM, a steering committee was established to guide the program's continued growth.
Looking Ahead
With a planning and review process underway and full-time staff in place, Make the Moove is preparing to expand its services. In the coming months, we will be rolling out new initiatives, including new training programmes, community outreach efforts, and an expansion of our digital resources. Our commitment to evidence-based practices will remain central, with ongoing evaluations of our programmess to ensure we are making a meaningful impact. As part of our expansion, we aim to forge new partnerships, collaborate with more third-level institutions, and strengthen our network of mental health professionals and community leaders.
Meet the team
Dedicated to supporting rural mental health
The Make the Moove team brings together experienced professionals passionate about mental health and wellbeing in farming and rural communities. We work together to create programmess, resources, and partnerships that are grounded in research and tailored to the needs of rural Ireland.
Dr Conor Holohan
Programme Director
Conor comes from a farming family in county Monaghan and is responsible for overseeing the programme's strategic direction, development, and day-to-day operations. With a background in agricultural research and mental health, his role includes managing relationships with key stakeholders, delivering talks, guiding programme delivery, and ensuring the continuous growth of Make the Moove.
Hobbies: Outside of work, I love spending time in the mountains trail running and hiking. During the darker winter evenings handball becomes my sport of choice. I also enjoy reading and listening to podcasts on personal development and mental health and finding new insights that I can apply to my work and daily life.
Fun fact: I once played handball on Alcatraz Island.
How I mind my wellbeing: I try to practice what I preach and take time each week for activities that help me recharge, even if it's just a quick walk or some down time with family and friends. Recently I've taken up cold-water swimming and like to go for a morning dip in the sea or a nearby lake whenever I can. Journalling is also part of my routine and I find it particularly helpful for reflecting on my thoughts and gaining clarity when I need it. I also make it a point to attend regular therapy sessions which are invaluable for maintaining my wellbeing.
What I love about Make the Moove: The opportunity to make a real difference in rural communities and work with like-minded people who are passionate about mental health and wellbeing.
Elaine Houlihan
Macra National President
From a farming background in county Limerick, Elaine plays a key role in supporting and advising the Make the Moove program. With deep roots in agriculture, she brings valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and partnership building. Elaine helps shape the programme's strategic direction, ensuring that Make the Moove remains a priority within Macra, driving initiatives and securing funding to expand its reach. Her work is instrumental in connecting the program with key stakeholders and advocating for rural mental health at a national level.
Hobbies: Outside of Macra I work as a physiotherapist and my hobbies are the GAA, socialising and farming.
Fun fact: I did my full college degree in the Netherlands.
How I mind my wellbeing: Making time to spend with my friends or family. You will often catch me out and about having coffee with someone.
What I love about Make the Moove: I love the whole concept of what Make the Moove offers people and their communities. As a healthcare professional I understand the needs of these people and I want to help in having a positive impact through Make the Moove.
Our Steering Group
The Steering Group provides valuable strategic guidance to the Make the Moove program, helping to ensure that the initiatives we roll out are aligned with our mission and reflect the needs of the farming community. Comprised of experts from agriculture, mental health, and rural affairs, the group offers insight and expertise to ensure our programs are impactful, evidence-based, and sustainable.
* Prof Louise McHugh, Head of School of Psychology, University College Dublin
* Mary Dunphy, Events, Sponsorship & Brand Marketing Lead, FBD Insurance
* Dr Donna Deegan, National Learning Support Specialist, Teagasc
* John Keane, Dairy Farmer and former Macra National President, Tipperary
* Elaine Houlihan, National President, Macra
* Mick Curran, CEO, Macra
Engage with us
Our small but dedicated team, along with our steering group, work tirelessly to improve rural mental health in Ireland. If you're interested in learning more, partnering with us, or supporting our mission, don't hesitate to reach out.
Our Partners
We're proud to partner with leading organisations across Ireland
Make the Moove collaborates with a network of dedicated partners who share our commitment to supporting mental health and wellbeing in farming and rural communities. Together, we work to develop innovative, impactful programmes that address the unique needs of the agricultural sector. We're grateful for the valuable contributions of each organisation, whose support makes our work possible.
Our Partnering Organisations
1. Corporate partners
Our corporate partners provide financial backing that enables us to maintain and develop critical programs. Their support also includes event sponsorships, in-kind services, and promotional assistance, helping us reach wider audiences.
2. Government and health sector collaborators
Our work with government bodies and health organisations ensures that our programs are aligned with national standards and integrate well with state-provided mental health services, creating a cohesive support framework.
3. Community and nonprofit organisations
Local nonprofits and community groups offer invaluable insights into the specific needs of rural communities, ensuring our resources are tailored to have maximum impact.
4. Educational and research institutions
Through partnerships with universities and research bodies, we stay informed on the latest studies on rural mental health, which guide our program development and help us refine our approach.
5. Media partners
Media partners help amplify our message, sharing stories of impact, programme updates, and raising awareness about mental health in rural communities. Their support ensures that more people know where to find help when they need it.
Why Partner with Us?
By partnering with Make the Moove, you'll be part of a powerful mission to change lives and improve mental health outcomes across rural Ireland. We welcome organisations that are passionate about rural wellbeing, mental health, and community support to join us in making a difference. Each partnership is unique, and we are always open to new ideas for collaboration.
For more information about partnering with Make the Moove, please contact us at makethemoove@macra.ie
