New York and Dublin, 1 October 2026: The Ireland Funds marked its 50th anniversary today by ringing the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange and launching a five-year $200 million campaign.
The largest fundraising initiative in the organisation’s history, this will build on the generosity of the Irish diaspora and friends of Ireland to increase The Ireland Funds’ impact across the island.
The campaign will advance the organisation’s four areas of impact: education and innovation, arts and culture, community development, and peace and reconciliation.
Thomas C. Quick, Chair, and Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Chair Emerita of The Ireland Funds America, rang the Opening Bell on behalf of The Ireland Funds, joined by donors, Board Directors, Young Leaders and members of the organisation’s leadership.
Thomas C. Quick said: “Ringing the Opening Bell at the New York Stock Exchange is a powerful way to celebrate 50 years and mark the beginning of the next chapter for The Ireland Funds. We are determined to build on an extraordinary legacy of generosity and deliver even greater impact across the island of Ireland.”
“New York has been part of The Ireland Funds’ story since our first event here in 1976. Wall Street companies have supported our work throughout the five decades that followed, alongside the many people whose collective action has made The Ireland Funds a force for good. It is especially meaningful to see the Young Leaders carry that tradition forward as we look ahead to what we can achieve together.”
Founded in 1976 by Amb. Dan Rooney and Tony O’Reilly, The Ireland Funds has raised more than US$750 million, supported more than 3,500 organisations and awarded more than 1,000 scholarships. Today, The Ireland Funds builds on its belief in Ireland’s people, promise and potential, bringing supporters together to meet today’s needs and secure lasting impact for generations to come.
