Campaign Update 2004 : Kingsley Aikins

It hardly seems like five years since we launched our Hope & History Campaign to raise $100 million between 1999 and 2003. And yet, here we are at the successful conclusion of what has been a fascinating period in the life of The American Ireland Fund, and indeed, The Worldwide Ireland Funds.

Under the committed leadership of our Boston-based Campaign Director, Caitriona Fottrell, a structured program of research, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship was put in place with over 240 Campaign ‘asks’ being made. The response was nothing short of sensational, particularly at the Board level. AIF directors contributed over 66% of the total raised. Worldwide reaction was similarly astounding with the aus$1 million gift to Integrated Education in Northern Ireland by Lady Mary Fairfax in Sydney being a wonderful example.

The impact of the Campaign was more than just financial: it has galvanized the entire organization. We now have committed and enthusiastic Boards around the world, who are willing to lead and give. They have a greater appreciation of the mission of The Funds and the impact of our work. Increasing visits to Ireland for our annual conference and at other times have reinforced this commitment. So much so, that we are encouraging a greater number of visits with the launching of our ‘Fly-In’ program.

The Campaign has also made clear the challenges we now face going forward, particularly the constant struggle to raise undesignated funds to build an endowment and to put The Funds on a more sustainable financial footing. The continuing over-dependence of the organization on a small number of major events, (and by definition), a small number of key individuals is risky. This year the Worldwide Ireland Funds Conference in Dublin will be focusing on these issues and we will launch a series of key initiatives to address them over the next 3 years.

In the meantime, staff, Directors and supporters alike should take a well-deserved bow and get a break before we tackle the next great challenges in the life of The Ireland Funds. Kudos and sincere thanks to one and all. Onward and upward!

Kingsley Aikins
President & CEO
The Worldwide Ireland Funds