b"Our attitude towards ourselves has changed dramatically because of TheIreland Funds. Before, we saw ourselves as a charity. We don't see ourselvesas a charity anymore. We like to ask people to invest. Joan Freeman, Pieta HouseThe Ireland Funds have been hugely important to The Ark. It hasn't been just about themoney, though the money really matters. The support of The Ireland Funds is philosophi-cal. It is an absolute energetic support that stands for the creative life, for children, and fortheir potential. It is the act of coming alongside and standing with us. We are constantlyreinterpreting culture and The Ireland Funds are part of that journey. Eina McHugh, The ArkWhen Lagan College opened 30 years ago, 28 children were able to attend the rst planned integrated schoolin Northern Ireland. Since then, The Ireland Funds have supported the integrated education movement by improving facilities in existing schools, supporting the opening of new schools and expanding access to integrated education to early childhood education. Thanks to the supporters like The Ireland Funds, 21,000 children and young people across Northern Ireland are enrolled in one of 61 integrated schools and the movement continues to gain momentum. Paul Caskey, Integrated Education FundA project like this is unlike anything the club has undertaken in the past andthe grant from The Ireland Funds has helped immensely. Funding from TheIreland Funds gives us a level of respect and status because of their rigid review process before giving money.Tom Kenny, Our Lady's Boys' ClubThe ultimate dream is that there would be peace & reconciliation in Northern Ireland, and without organizationslike The Ireland Funds, that would be a difficult journey.Angila Chada, Springboardconnect 2013 | 9"