South Antrim Rural Network provides community development support to rural communities within the council boroughs of Antrim, Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus. SARN does this by determining and responding to the key issues impacting on the lives of rural people, and rolling out programmes as an action on anti-poverty. SARN is also committed to tackling the impact of poverty and economic crisis in rural areas through commitment to suicide prevention and addressing the determinants of suicide.

SARN is funded by the Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (through the Rural Development Programme) and the Public Health Agency. 

SARN's Aims:

1. Empowering the voice of rural communities
2. Championing excellence in community development practice
3. Developing civic leadership in rural communities through a community development approach
4. Actively working towards an equitable and peaceful society
5. Promoting the sustainable development of rural communities

SARN's Vision:

The vision for South Antrim is a community living and working in harmony in a safe, healthy environment where there is a strong infrastructutre which improves quality of life and builds a better future for all.

SARN's Mission Statement:

The mission statement of SARN is to be an effective umbrella organisation which will:

• Encourage and support community groups development in rural areas of Lisbrun and across council areas of Newtownabbey, Antrim and Carrickfergus.
• Provide networking opportunities so that groups can learn from one another, access information, training and resources, and exchange ideas.

• Address issues of concern, maximise local skills and introduce programmes for development.