On Tuesday February 26th 2008, prominent women members of The American Ireland Fund gathered at the home of Chairman Loretta Brennan Glucksman to attend the inaugural dinner of the Women’s Giving Circle, a society dedicated to celebrating the political, cultural and philanthropic contributions of Irish and Irish-American women.

The evening’s conversation, moderated by Loretta, focused on the Northern Ireland Women’s Initiative (NIWI), a multi-partisan organization which enables women to succeed in politics.

Founded by Maureen Murray in response to the Good Friday Agreement’s commitment to “the right of women to full and equal political participation” NIWI’s breakthrough, non partisan research, education and training platform offers a comprehensive program to equip, mentor and promote women with the skills and political acumen needed to run a campaign and enter the political process.

Guest speaker Bronagh Hinds, Director of the Northern Ireland Women’s Initiative in Belfast, offered a thought-provoking presentation. Bronagh focused on the need for continued support of the peace process in Northern Ireland and the importance of increasing women’s representation at all levels of government there. The inspired session of questions and discussions continued as guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner and toasted the bright beginnings of the Women’s Giving Circle.

“The cause of women in Northern Ireland is essential to the cause of peace”
- Senator George Mitchell

What is a Giving Circle?
The concept is as simple as it is powerful. A Giving Circle is formed when individuals come together and pool their funds, decide together where to give the money (and perhaps volunteer time or expertise) and learn together about their community and philanthropy. The mission of the Women’s Giving Circle is to support the goals of The American Ireland Fund while celebrating the political, philanthropic and creative achievements of the women of the Irish Diaspora. The success of this foundational night ensures the continued evolution of this inspirational group of women.

Info
Please contact Maureen Gillespie
T - 212.689.3100
E - mgillespie@irlfunds.org

Photos
1 - Madeline Sherry, Lois Wholey, Kate Picco, Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Barbara O'Sullivan
2 - Aine Sheridan, Shelagh Montgomery, Bronagh Hinds
3 - Caitlin McCormick, Margaret Whelan, Peggy McGrath, Maureen Gillespie, Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Claire Conway
4 - Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Lesley King Grenier
5 - Pauline Turley, Moia Hinds
6 - Maureen Hurley, Jacqueline Botting, Kathleen Ryan, Peggy McGrath
7 - Kate Picco, Lois Wholey
8 - Bronagh Hinds, Marie Burgess
9 - Margaret Whelan, Kathleen Ryan
10 - Bronagh Hinds addresses the guests
11 - Deidre Brennan, Barbara O'Sullivan, Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Peggy Condron, Lesley King, Kate Picco
12 - Guests enjoying dinner