Donors from across the international chapters of The Ireland Funds gathered at the organization’s annual gala event based at the Adare Manor Hotel in Co. Limerick.
The four day conference included supporters from 27 cities across the world visiting a range of funded projects as well as key events that included The Ireland Funds AWB Vincent Literary Award which was presented to Irish author Anne Enwright. The conference also included a plenary session that discussed the long range plans for the organization.
The philanthropic impact of The Ireland Funds was recognized at the event’s Gala as special guest Senator George Mitchell addressed those gathered and thanked them for their generosity which has impacted thousands of causes and nonprofit organizations across the island of Ireland. Donors who have shown a philanthropic commitment at the highest levels to The Ireland Funds were acknowledged as members of the new Ireland Funds O’Reilly Rooney Society. Several of those donors present on the night were recognized and thanked by those gathered.
Since its establishment in 1976 by the late Dan Rooney and Sir Anthony O’Reilly, The Ireland Funds has raised over $600m for over 3,200 organizations.
Addressing the Gala event, Senator George Mitchell said, “The Ireland Funds has done such great work here in the Republic and in Northern Ireland. I’ve seen it firsthand in Northern Ireland and I want you to know that what you are doing really does matter and makes a difference in the lives of many people on this island and beyond. On behalf of those who don’t know you, those who may not even know of The Ireland Funds, I sincerely thank you.”
John Fitzpatrick, Chairman, The Ireland Funds America said, “At this conference we have members from 27 cities from as far as Singapore, Australia and China. Once a year we come together to work as a team and to unite for common causes that help those with greater needs. I thank all of our chapters for coming together to make this happen and thank you for all you do for Ireland on behalf of The Ireland Funds.”
Kieran McLoughlin, Worldwide President and CEO, The Ireland Funds said: “We celebrate the power and the spirit and the impact of philanthropy. Philanthropy can be immediate and it can also be long-term and sustained. It can be innovative and take risks onboard ideas. The Ireland Funds have had the privilege of supporting over 3200 projects thanks to you, our donors, who have stood up for Ireland.”
Photos: Aengus McMahon
