What Difference Does it Make? [printable text version]
174 Trust	Addresses the needs of those living in a materially and socially disadvantaged society. Funding supports renovations and refurbishment of the former Presbyterian Church and halls, now a community centre in North Belfast.	“The AIF’s support for our work of ‘Building Peace and Promoting Reconciliation’ in the most disadvantaged and divided parts of North Belfast has been crucial to our survival and ability to make the contribution we do. The Fund’s endorsement has been as important as any grants we have received and has given us a degree of credibility — both at home and overseas — that we would not otherwise have had.” Bill Shaw, Director
abbeyshrule airfield community enterprise group	Seeks to provide a unique community facility in the form of a visitor park in the Airfield. Funding supports landscaping around the new Millennium bridge and access road.	“Our goals for the future are the completion of the terminal building housing a visitor’s and reception area, new control office, flight briefing rooms, coffee shops and toilets. Any further grant aid from The American Ireland Fund will be most acceptable and will go towards the completion of this project.” Betty McGoey, Secretary
accessing college education	Works with three secondary schools in West Tallaght to enable students to gain access to the third level. Funding provides students with grants so they can focus on their studies and not have to take up part-time work.	“The grant from The American Ireland Fund is vital to the success of our programme.” Michael Meade, Chairperson
aislinn addiction treatment centre	Provides community drug prevention, residential drug addiction treatment, and aftercare programmes for young people ages 15–21. Funding is used to support capital projects.	“ The AIF’s grant has helped us put in place our 12-step Serenity Garden, which is for residents and staff and families of residents. It is a quiet place that’s very peaceful.” Breda Cahill, Administrator
all hallows college	A community of education in theology and related disciplines. Funding is used to expand the All Hallows College library and equip it with modern student aids.	“The American Ireland Fund can continue to help us by providing funds for faculty development, the establishment of a Chair of Pastoral Training and Supervision, scholarships for those who want to prepare for work in disadvantaged areas, and the preservation and decoration of the college chapel.” Father Mark Noonan, C.M.,President
altnaveigh house cultural society	Provides a neutral environment where both nationalist and unionist groups can come together, promotes the cultures of everyone in the community, and establishes community businesses to create employment and introduce new skills. Funding is used for specialist training.	“Our goal for the future is to develop the Ulster Scots and Gaelic School of Cultures and Traditions and our show ‘Piping Hot.’ This allows young people from the two main communities to come together and learn and understand more about what brings them together, rather than what drives them apart.” Margaret Thompson, Chief Executive
an cosán, -the shanty educational project	Formed for the benefit of the people in West Tallaght with the philosophy that education is the key to eradicating poverty. Funding supports the recruitment and salary of a manager for the Childminding in the Home project.	“The Childminding in the Home project provides a much-needed service in a community where unemployment and early school leaving are high. We believe this project will provide an exit route from poverty for many women.” Elizabeth Waters, Chief Executive
an taisce — the national trust for ireland	The most influential environmental body in Ireland. Funding helps develop the Green Schools programme to enable more schools to participate and reduce their output of waste, energy use, and consumption of water.	“ The American Ireland Fund in supporting our Green Schools project has enabled us to expand the programme to more schools throughout Ireland. These schools are now achieving on average a 45% reduction of waste and learning to reduce, recycle and reuse as a way of life.” Patricia Oliver, Director, Environmental Education Unit
archbishop marsh’s library	The first public library in Ireland [built in 1701] and a magnificent example of a 17th-century scholars’ library. Funding is used to support fellowships to encourage the research of rare books.	“The AIF has helped to restore Marsh’s Library by providing valuable equipment for readers and staff, a badly needed security system, and general refurbishment. Our goal for the future is to make the library a centre for educational projects and study of its collections.” Muriel McCarthy, Keeper of the Library
ark cultural centre for children	Devotes itself exclusively to an innovative arts programme for children. Funding is applied towards the 20% scheme, whereby schools operating in areas of socio-economic disadvantage charge reduced entrance costs to facilitate attendance.	“The American Ireland Fund grant was the first contribution pledged to The Ark towards the commission of artwork for Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children. It was of tremendous assistance to The Ark both in terms of getting the project off the ground and also in terms of securing additional funding for the project.” Jenni Barrett, Director of Development
baboró international arts festival for children	The leading Irish arts festival devoted exclusively to children. Funding is used to expand the outreach programme workshops from 43 to 75, targeting special needs projects, marginalised children in youth group settings, and disadvantaged schools.	“Schools travel from three counties to avail of the Baboró Festival’s rich arts experience. Some programmes are sent to schools that could not otherwise experience some of the guest artists that travel to Galway during this time. Workshops for children and for teachers are also part of the festival, to encourage children to participate in the value of aesthetic education. Support from The American Ireland Fund has been instrumental in reaching out to disadvantaged schools.” Lali Morris, Executive Director
ballinglen arts foundation	Enables international artists to work and live in rural Ireland to benefit the community and the artist. Funding supports a Fellowship Programme that brings Irish and international artists to Mayo, local educational and exhibition programmes, and a permanent collection of contemporary art in North Mayo.	“The support from this vital fund has literally made it possible for us to survive. As available Irish funding cannot cover our programming costs, we would have had to eliminate staff, cut programmes, and possibly close our operations. In addition, the prestige associated with this support encourages other donors to contribute.” Margo Dolan, Founding Director
barretstown gang camp	Provides a unique and powerful programme that allows seriously ill children from Ireland and Europe to rediscover their own inner strength, confidence, and self-esteem. Funding is used to bring children to Barretstown to experience a 10-day session of therapeutic recreation.Provides a unique and powerful programme that allows seriously ill children from Ireland and Europe to rediscover their own inner strength, confidence, and self-esteem. Funding is used to bring children to Barretstown to experience a 10-day session of therapeutic recreation.	“The support from The American Ireland Fund has helped Barretstown to run programmes of fun and adventure, and activities which are medically endorsed and help the children to seize life and deal with the challenges of their illness.” Jenny Winter, CEO
belfast community circus school	Teaches circus arts to children in some of the most needy communities in Northern Ireland, and acts as a training school for professional teachers and performers of circus arts. Funding supports a 10-week programme of circus workshops for young people with the greatest need.	“Ten years ago the first grant awarded by The American Ireland Fund enabled us to employ a development worker — our first paid worker. Continued support over the years for specific projects has enabled young people to benefit from advanced training and international exchanges. More recent support for a peer educator programme now means that the next generation of teachers is being supported to give something back to the community.” Will Chamberlain, Director
belfast together	A cross-community soccer project for children ages 10–15. Funding is used to cover training facilities, transport between loyalist and republican areas, and equipment.	“This programme addresses the issues of sectarianism, tolerance and understanding. We wish to sustain that impetus so that children can be free from bigotry and intolerance, which can only be of benefit to peace-building now and in the future.” William Smith, Development Worker
belvedere college s.j.	A college in Dublin. Funding helps pay for required renovations and construction of new facilities to meet growing needs.	“While building the theatre facilities and the science and technology block, we have been able to appeal to prospective supporters around the world. The American Ireland Fund has enabled this to happen, and has thereby been a great help in ensuring that we can provide facilities for students and staff.” Unattributed
belvedere youth club	The oldest youth club in Ireland, serving more than 500 children ages 7–18 in one of the most economically depressed areas of Dublin. Funding supports the conversion and fitout of a room where club members receive homework support.	“Over the years The American Ireland Fund has assisted our youth club in running many programmes that quite simply could not have been run without such assistance. These include homework classes, drug awareness programmes, summer camps, and our youth theatre group which would have closed down were it not for The AIF.” Paul Brady, Director
birr scientific and heritage foundation	Houses exhibits and antique equipment related to photography, astronomy, botany, and engineering. Funding helps pay for wrought iron entrance gates to the Birr Castle Demesne.	“With The American Ireland Fund’s assistance, we’ve been able to undertake a feasibility study leading to the restoration of the great telescope of Birr and, as a result, increase our visitor attractiveness.” Dr. Salter Sterling, Chairman
boys hope girls hope	Assists young people who are experiencing difficulties at home and are at risk of becoming homeless. Funding is used to provide an aftercare facility for eight young people who are moving from care to supported accommodation.	“The AIF grant has made a significant impact in our ability to provide young people with skills before they move from our supported accommodation to independent accommodation in the community.” Paul O’Callaghan, Executive Director
bunscoil mhic reachtain and the mccracken cultural society	An independent Irish-medium primary school located in Belfast. Funding is used to erect and equip a third classroom to provide space for expanding numbers and to provide for parent support classes and workshops.	“The American Ireland Fund enabled us to portray the positive side of North Belfast by helping us promote the Irish language and culture to all sections of our community including different age groups and social, ethnic, and educational backgrounds. All in all, this helps to breathe vitality into the area.” Máirtín Mac Cathmhaoil, Irish Language Development Officer
c.o.r.e. city outreach through renewal and evangelism	Serves as a resource church for the city of Dublin and the nation. Funding helps develop a centre for worship and an appropriate space for the hosting of conferences and seminars, expand social outreach programmes, and support urban renewal.	“The costs of maintaining an old building like St. Catherine’s Church, running a busy office and putting on various events are quite considerable. This is where The American Ireland Fund can help.” Lara Sheridan, Office Administrator
cari foundation	Provides professional, child-centered therapy and counseling services to children, families, and groups who have been affected by child sexual abuse. Funding supports dissemination of information, a Helpline, and outreach education.	“These funds had a profound impact on our work and allowed us to make significant improvements to our preventive education service and increase awareness of the Helpline.” Mary Flaherty, National Director
carmichael centre for voluntary groups	Helps deliver support services, such as training and mentoring, that are tailored to the needs of small voluntary and community groups. Funding covers the costs of staff and volunteer training, purchase of publications, and printing.	“Hundreds of organisations now use the service every year, so the Centre can make a real difference to the quality of management, delivery of services and fundraising in small and medium-sized groups which had not previously had access to such assistance.” Kate O’Sullivan, CEO
carrick-on-shannon heritage experience	Aims to preserve the town’s heritage by promoting regeneration and encouraging awareness of the local environment, focusing on the restoration and conservation of two valuable buildings in the town. Funding is used to restore a Telford organ as part of the preservation of St. George’s Church, which is to become a centre for concerts and drama.	“The generous grant from The American Ireland Fund has provided a major boost to our efforts, both in itself and by enabling us to attract additional grant funding from government and European sources. With the help of this donation, we have been able to put in hand the first stage of the restoration of St. George’s Church.” David Meikle, Director and Secretary
carriganass castle	Focuses on the conservation of the 16th-century Carriganass Castle, which serves as a showcase for the three valleys of Borlin, Kealkill, and Mealagh. Funding helps develop an amenity park with a picnic area, bike path, and information area.	“The credibility and profile of the project got a big boost from the prestige of The American Ireland Fund, and this was of assistance not only in other fundraising efforts but also in our dealings with statutory bodies.” Dan Sullivan, Administrator
castleblayney trust for homeless, needy and unemployed	Works with homeless, needy, and unemployed people to improve their care, support, rehabilitation, accommodation, and employment opportunities. Funding is used to build an extension on Shalom, a refuge for mothers and children who are victims of domestic violence and alcoholism.	“The grant we received went towards the purchase of a house to extend our social housing complement. We are now housing 46 persons in 11 houses and 10 flats.” Sr. Celine McArdle, Chairperson
charleville & district association for the handicapped	Enables people with disabilities to live the life of their choice and reach their potential through individualised support. Funding goes towards the development of workshops in Charleville town and helps provide shared care facilities for children in a community setting.	“The grant provided by The American Ireland Fund has been crucial in developing a building for the provision of respite care for children with disabilities. The grant has also helped us develop a building which will accommodate our T.E.S.S. training service as well as a print unit and cafeteria. All of these projects have helped establish a better quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities and their families.” Conor Counihan, CEO
charleville castle trust	Enables low-wage earners in Offaly to attend locally run courses by the Athlone Institute of Technology. Funding is used for course tuition.	“We intend to create Ireland’s first twenty-first-century university, independent of the state, in line with the American model, and totally international. Our goal is to create a new international campus, bringing developed and underdeveloped countries together in the serene environs of the great houses of Ireland.” Dudley Stewart, Managing Trustee “ We intend to create Ireland’s first twenty-first-century university, independent of the state, in line with the American model, and totally international. Our goal is to create a new international campus, bringing developed and underdeveloped countries together in the serene environs of the great houses of Ireland.” Dudley Stewart, Managing Trustee
chester beatty library	An art museum and library that houses an outstanding collection of Islamic manuscripts as well as Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and other Oriental art. Funding allows the library to record up to 5,000 one-of-a-kind digital images, transparencies, and prints.	“Our goals are to make the library’s magnificent collections available for the use and enjoyment of the public; to promote a wider appreciation and understanding of international cultural heritage; and to foster relations between the people of Ireland and the peoples whose cultures are represented in the collections. The support of The American Ireland Fund will help us to optimise the benefit of the Chester Beatty gift to Ireland and the world.” Dr. Michael Ryan, Director
children’s friendship project for northern ireland	A cross-community youth initiative that promotes friendship and understanding while developing youth leadership skills and citizenship through training and education. Funding is used towards expansion of activities, training, and team building.	“Our organisation has been able to expand its pre-departure and follow-up activities, including leadership workshops, residentials, team building and teen events. The grant has also made it possible to expand local family-wide activities, thus spreading the word and concept of peace and reconciliation.” Ian A. Young, Vice Chair
cill rialaig project	A restored prefamine village that serves as an international artists’ retreat. Funding helps pay for a cottage studio that will offer free-of-charge residencies to artists specifically from Northern Ireland and other areas of political turmoil.	“The American Ireland Fund’s grant helped kick start our whole project and gave us the confidence to believe our dream could come true. We have had over 17,000 applications for free-of-charge residencies. Here is where young artists meet the world!” Noelle Campbell-Sharp, Founder
cinemagic	An international film festival in Northern Ireland, which helps young people get a foot in the door of the film world. Funding supports outreach and training programmes.	“Through the medium of film, young people learn about different cultures and social issues, which in turn broadens their perspective and understanding. By creating opportunities for young people, Cinemagic can help them tap their creativity and maximize their true potential.” Joan Burney, Festival Director
clifden hospital digital radiology service	A district hospital located more than 100 miles from the nearest city. Funding helps to underwrite the x-ray unit.	“Without The American Ireland Fund’s help and support at a critical stage in our development, the project would have foundered.” Dr. John P. Casey, Practitioner
committee on the administration of justice caj	Assists in the creation of a human rights culture in Northern Ireland. Funding contributes to public education efforts that include materials, venues, travel expenses for speakers, and conference organising.	“CAJ is working to secure a just and peaceful society in Northern Ireland where the human rights of all are fully protected. The AIF can support us to build a vibrant human rights culture in Northern Ireland and to challenge human rights violations as and when they occur.” Martin O’Brien, Director
connemara community radio	A community-based radio station that services Connemara on a volunteer network. Funding is used for training volunteers, management, and staff.A community-based radio station that services Connemara on a volunteer network. Funding is used for training volunteers, management, and staff.	“The AIF has helped us to train volunteers for Inishbofin and Clifden studios in order to provide access to radio for more communities.” Pat Walshe, Manager
cork academy of music	Provides musical training for the long-term unemployed, children, and those who leave school early. Funding is used to upgrade equipment in the recording studio, a very important element of the training programme.	“Contributions from The American Ireland Fund have enabled us to vastly improve our training facilities through the purchase of recording equipment and musical instruments.” Robert Seward, Honorary Secretary
cork opera house	Features a conventional opera house and a studio theatre that showcases experimental projects targeted at younger audiences. Funding enables subsidies that reduce ticket prices and transport costs to rural schools, create in-school workshops, and develop education pages on the website.	“Through The American Ireland Fund’s grant, we have been able to deliver live performances to over 900 disadvantaged students in the Munster region. In many cases, this experience has been the students’ first introduction to the magic of live theatre.” Miriam Forde, Business Development Officer
corrymeela community	Strives to heal the social, religious, and political divisions in Northern Ireland by providing a safe environment in which people can speak openly about their own experiences with religious prejudice. Funding supports various capital projects including the refurbishment of the Corrymeela House and the upgrading of one of our residential units.	“The American Ireland Fund has allowed us to develop our programs, particularly our work with families and communities, providing respite for marginalized family groups and facilitating the development of cross-community partnerships.” Peter Anderson, Development Director
crawford municipal art gallery	One of Cork’s most important buildings, dating back to 1724. Funding enables the gallery to work with marginalised teenagers on a three-year education/outreach programme that exposes them to functional, contemporary, and historical art.	“Our goal is to have a full-time, year-round education programme encompassing a wide demographic. The American Ireland Fund can further assist the programme by aligning the gallery with companies and patrons who are supportive of outreach programmes and the positive effects they have on their participants.”
croagh community council	A council that promotes the social, cultural, and economic welfare of Croagh Parish. Funding is used in phase 2 of the village enhancement work programme, to install old-world style lanterns and construct shrubbery beds.	“The park was completed just before things got really expensive and would never have been done at the time without the assistance of Peter Lynch and The American Ireland Fund. As our village is now beginning to grow it is wonderful to have an open, tranquil space to appreciate life and serenity.” Mary Quaid, Capital Investment Officer
croi — west of ireland cardiology foundation	A charity dedicated to pursuing and attaining the highest level of cardiovascular health care for the people of West of Ireland. Funding provides cardiac life support training for individuals who endeavour to maintain life in the critical waiting time for an ambulance.	“The American Ireland Fund is helping us save lives in the West of Ireland.” Neil Johnson, Chief Executive
dublin city gallery the hugh lane	Houses one of Ireland’s foremost collections of modern and contemporary art. Funding supports the Francis Bacon complex, which consists of an audio-visual room and microgallery with six touchscreen terminals providing access to the database of studio contents.	“Our main goal for the future is the extension of the Gallery’s exhibition space. The American Ireland Fund can help in raising awareness of the Gallery amongst potential donors both at home and abroad.” Dr. Margarita Cappock, Curator
dublin simon community	A voluntary organisation that provides outreach help, an emergency shelter, housing projects, and transitional accommodation for Dublin’s homeless population. Funding is used to develop a medical room in the outreach centre.	“Homelessness is an ever-growing problem in Dublin, with more than 300 people sleeping on the city’s streets. The need for Dublin Simon’s services has never been greater. Dublin Simon Community aims to address the root causes of homelessness and strives to help people re establish independent living. Being homeless places enormous stress on a person’s health, and identifying and treating medical problems is crucial in helping a person who has been homeless regain their independence.” Katherine Ayres, Corporate Fundraiser
dublin talmud torah	A school for Dublin’s Jewish community. Funding helps to purchase software and hardware for the primary school, to assist in the teaching of Hebrew and Jewish studies.	“With continued funding, we hope to expand and update our IT facilities for the benefit of the pupils both Jewish and non-Jewish in our school.” Adrian Gordon, President
eacht sliabh luachra	Helps create a sense of self-pride in the local community by acknowledging and promoting volunteerism. Funding is used to help restore valuable heritage projects for the community.	“Our goals are to preserve and nurture the rich culture, heritage and traditions of the Sliabh Luachra — a district which is famous as a repository of traditional Irish music and poetry — along the Cork/Kerry border. We would hope that The American Ireland Fund would assist us in future projects.” Donal Hickey, Public Relations Officer “ With the help of generous Americans, through The AIF, the O’Reilly Library at Dublin City University is making a significant impact for our students, faculty and researchers. It has brought a world-class academic resource to Ireland’s youngest university.” Michael T. Murphy, Deputy CEO
ellis tate centre for the arts	An arts centre in North West Connemara. Funding is helping to build the arts centre by converting an old grain store in Letterfrack.	“We take great comfort from the fact that The American Ireland Fund may be in a position to make our goals possible, by stepping in to make up the funding difference and, in so doing, bring the arts centre into existence.” Mari Saville, Director
energy action	Addresses the thermal needs of the elderly and needy, and offers training to long-term unemployed people. Funding provides home computers, training programmes, home visits, individual tutoring, and evaluation.	“The American Ireland Fund has been instrumental in enabling us to survive at crucial stages of development. As we are charged with the responsibility of providing training, mentoring and monitoring to the groups involved in the national programme for fuel poverty alleviation, we anticipate that The AIF will continue to be essential supporters.” Charles Roarty, General Manager
evangelical contribution on northern ireland econi	Prepares Christians to address the community divisions in Northern Ireland. Funding goes towards the costs of an action research project that aims to contribute to peace and reconciliation.	“Using training modules developed with the help of The AIF, we have been able to bring together local Protestant and Roman Catholic congregations and enable them to understand how history, culture and religion have shaped their identity. With this understanding they are equipped to engage positively with members of each other’s community.” Lynda Gould, Learning Director
fatima groups united	A coalition that aims to lobby for the regeneration of Fatima, one of Ireland’s poorest communities. Funding supports research, training, and programme costs for a three-year project to develop a sustainable form of art provision suited to the needs of local people.	“ The American Ireland Fund has made a very significant contribution to our organisation and the wider community of Fatima Mansions by: responding positively and consistently to project proposals; providing practical advice and serving as a liaison in respect of potential donors; engaging directly with the community in critical discussions around social need and effective fundraising; and providing positive profiling of Fatima in publications and other media.” Niall O’Baoill, Cultural/Arts Coordinator
fettercairn youth horse project	Provides disadvantaged young people with the opportunity to develop social skills through their interest in horses. Funding supports the costs of training equipment.	“We believe that the young people who access our project have a right to the same quality of opportunity as young people everywhere, and we are glad to been able to purchase quality horses and hire experienced and qualified staff with the assistance of grants from The American Ireland Fund.” Michael Quilligan, Board Member
flax trust	The largest community regeneration project in Ireland, which focuses on economic development by using abandoned linen mills to create a sizeable business centre in the Ardoyne/Shankill interface, a Belfast “no man’s land.” Funding is used to provide cross-community training through the Brookfield Business School, teaching courses in IT technologies, engineering, and construction.	“The American Ireland Fund’s grants to the Foyer and Brookfield Business School have helped provide young, homeless people with the accommodation and the skills necessary to gain full-time employment and develop the capacity to get their own accommodation and live a worthwhile, independent life.” Fr. Myles Kavanagh, Chairman
free legal advice centres flac	Provides legal advice to those who otherwise cannot afford it, focusing on those who don’t fully understand the legal system or their rights. Funding helps provide training for volunteer advisors and increases access to the law for citizens in rural areas.	“We provide free, confidential advice through our telephone information line and referral line, and through a network of part-time legal advice centres nationwide, operated by volunteer lawyers. The American Ireland Fund has enabled us to provide information and training seminars for these lawyers.” Catherine Hickey, Director
galway rape crisis centre	Offers free and confidential support and counseling to survivors of rape and sexual abuse. Funding is used to provide training for all workers at the centre.	“The AIF grant has enabled our staff and volunteers to undertake valuable training and development, which means they can provide a more comprehensive and professional service to our clients.” Agnes Warren, Coordinator
galway simon community	A caring and campaigning movement that has been working with homeless people in Ireland since 1969. Funding helps cover the costs of fixtures and fittings needed to expand the charity shop floor.	“Funding from The American Ireland Fund permitted training opportunities in the resettlement project. The training covers capacity building in the areas of social skills, hygiene and nutrition together with education and self-advocacy in the areas of housing and social welfare.” Á ine Kilgallon, Fundraiser
galway university foundation	Works to advance the strategic priorities and economic objectives of the National University of Ireland, Galway. Funding is used to support the Community Knowledge Initiative, a broad programme of outreach and civic leadership designed to bring together community engagement and economic endeavor.	“Funding from The American Ireland Fund has enabled NUI, Galway and IRD Kiltimagh to initiate a partnership programme of research, service learning and knowledge-sharing activities. The Community Knowledge Initiative is based on the fundamental principles of putting communities at the centre of debate and educating students for civic engagement.” Aileen Shaw, Director of Operations
gate theatre	One of the most adventurous and far-sighted play houses in Europe. Funding is being used for a new building to transform the existing facilities and house the outreach and creative development plans.	“With The American Ireland Fund Leadership Gift, the building project has become a reality in the Gate’s 75th year, and they should take a bow, for when it is built it will help nurture and unleash an extraordinary wave of new writing talent.” Marie Rooney, Deputy Director
glencairn people’s project	Oversees the regeneration strategy for Glencairn and its environment. Funding supports refurbishment of the office block to provide a new gallery and production of photographic slides and speaking notes to use as a community resource.	“The grant enabled us to purchase an interpreter system which guides the public through the museum and provides background information about the exhibitions and the history of the area. We hope to upgrade the system with a view to adding French and Irish to the English language already in the system.” Tommy Kirkham, Councilor
glenstal abbey	A Benedictine monastery in County Limerick which manages a boarding school for boys, a farm, and a guest house. Funding supports the development of a modern 16-bedroom residential conference centre and a new library.	“The American Ireland Fund has provided us with excellent facilities for our guests and a new library which houses our important collection of books and is available to our guests and visitors.” Fr. Simon Sleeman, Bursar
grow	A mental health self-help organisation. Funding is used in the development of classroom training facilities.	“ Our goal is to make GROW available to the many people struggling with mental illness — an estimated 1,000,000. This will require much better management, publicity and training. We are on our way.” Mike Watts, National Program Coordinator
habitat for humanity belfast	Brings together Catholic and Protestant volunteers to restore, revitalise, and reconcile divided communities by building affordable homes for low-income families in the Ligoniel/Ballysillan area of North Belfast. Funding helps provide necessary materials and resources.	“The AIF has played a fundamental role in enabling us to build communities without fear in divided areas within Northern Ireland, and has been instrumental in bringing volunteers from all walks of life together to work side by side.” Liz Burke, Director of Fundraising & Communication
hazelwood integrated college	An all-ability coeducational college for post-primary children ages 11–18 that gives equal status to Catholics and Protestants. Funding supports an enrichment fund for extra-curricular activities and promoting links with other schools, which add to the educational experience of the students.	“Our goals for the future are to continue to promote integrated education locally, nationally and internationally; to enhance the reputation of Hazelwood College and increase its enrollment; to raise student awareness of the wider world by providing opportunities for students to travel and interact with students from other countries; to develop in young people a mutual understanding of other religions and cultures; and to provide students with the opportunity to develop social and leadership skills.” Eileen Lenehan, Acting Principal
inniskeen enterprise development group	Promotes economic and social regeneration in the village of Inniskeen, primarily through tourism associated with the local poet Patrick Kavanagh. Funding enables the restoration of two galleries of St. Mary’s Church, which houses the Patrick Kavanagh Rural & Literary Resource Centre.	“The funding provided by The American Ireland Fund has enabled us to provide essential seating. This gives us the opportunity to hold larger events such as the Patrick Kavanagh Weekend, which is hugely popular and growing in numbers each year. Through this event we can encourage interest in Kavanagh and promote the memory of this great poet.” Rosaleen Kearney, Secretary
integrated education fund forge integrated primary school	Enables children ages 4–11 from the two main religious/cultural traditions in Northern Ireland to be educated together. Funding helps purchase playgroup equipment and games for the children.	“Thanks to your fund, we currently have 14 three-year-olds in a local community centre and a pre-school facility attached to our primary school. Thank you for helping our visions and dreams come true.” Julie M. Hardy, Principal
ird kiltimagh	Works to improve the local community through development of commerce, tourism, and the arts. Funding helps enable the work necessary to render a site suitable for the development of The National Institute of Rural Development.Works to improve the local community through development of commerce, tourism, and the arts. Funding helps enable the work necessary to render a site suitable for the development of The National Institute of Rural Development.	“The American Ireland Fund has given us the financial means to progress projects that otherwise would not have been able to be developed. The money has been used to evolve projects to better the quality of life and the economic activity of the area for locals and visitors alike.” Joe Kelly, CEO
irish georgian society	Ireland’s Architectural Heritage Society, which aims to promote an interest in and the conservation of distinguished examples of architecture and the allied arts. Funding is applied towards the restoration of historic buildings. “	In the future, The American Ireland Fund can help with support and advice and by raising the profile of the Society to make more people aware of our aims and activities.” Mary Bryan, Chief Executive
irish guide dogs for the blind	Provides guide dogs to the visually impaired. Funding supports a cytology plan that will help develop a long-term breeding plan and increase the number of dogs produced.	“It’s not about dogs, it’s about providing visually impaired citizens with dignity, mobility and independence. Mobility means access to education, employment and the quality of life enjoyed by the rest of society.” Marguerite McQuaid, Campaign Development Officer
irish society for the prevention of cruelty to children	Aims to ensure that all children have a happy, safe childhood and help children who have suffered cruelty or trauma. Funding helps expand the Leanbh project, which works with children who are forced to beg on the streets.	“The ISPCC has a vision — a society where all children are loved, valued and able to fulfill their potential. In September 2003, the ISPCC launched ‘Stopping the Hurt’ — a new five-year strategy which encapsulates this vision. We must rely on fundraising and the generosity of others to achieve this. The opportunity exists to create a truly child-centered society in Ireland and the ISPCC is determined to ensure this opportunity is grasped.” Micheal Sheridan, Director of Fundraising
john ryan scholarship fund	Provides scholarships to three secondary schools in Tipperary town — The Abbey School, St. Ailbe’s School, and St. Anne’s School — to help students with financial difficulties attend or remain in University. Funding is used to award six scholarships per year.	“The American Ireland Fund’s support promotes hope and practical wellbeing where most needed.” Paul O’Callaghan, Principal, St. Ailbe’s School “ In many cases, scholarship beneficiaries are the first member of their family to attend third-level. We hope to continue with this very worthwhile scheme.” John Heffernan, Principal, The Abbey School “ Students do not have to take part-time jobs while they are in college, and they have excelled.” Donald O’Byrne, Principal, St. Anne’s School
kerry diocesan youth service	Provides social, recreational, and educational outlets that meet the needs of young people in the community. Funding supports a youth training and education centre, which offers second-chance education and training initiatives for socially excluded young people.	“ The support of The American Ireland Fund has raised the profile of the work which is vital for a volunteer organisation. Also, it has acted as a catalyst for other funders to support us.” Tim O’Donoghue, Coordinator
kilmaine community centre	Provides a wide range of sports activities to local youths and residents, and is expanding to offer cultural activities such as art and drama classes. Funding is used to refurbish the community centre.	“The grant from The American Ireland Fund made all the difference to our project. Our project is now finished. The centre was re-opened on the 10th August and we now have a new centre with no debt.” Marian Sheridan, Honorary Secretary
kylemore abbey	An abbey operated by the Benedictine Nuns that houses a craft shop, a restaurant, and an international all-girls boarding school. Funding is used to restore and reinstall the Victorian Walled Garden.	“The American Ireland Fund has been an essential partner in our efforts to reconstruct and restore this beautiful haven in rural Connemara. The size of our undertakings is far beyond our means, and we have had to rely on charitable help from our friends in America and elsewhere. The AIF has been instrumental in identifying potential supporters for a charitable cause such as ours, helping us with our fundraising approach in many ways, and in processing tax-effective gifts from American supporters.” Mother Magdalena FitzGibbon, Order of Saint Benedict
lartigue monorail restoration project	An effort to restore an original section of this unique monorail. Funding helps cover the cost of a locomotive engine.	“But for the very generous contributions from The American Ireland Fund, the committee would not be able to bring the project to its present stage. Future financial assistance will be vital to complete phase II of the project.” Jimmy Deenihan, Chairman
learning centre for autistic children	Delivers services to autistic children and their families, to allow these children to function more effectively, lead richer lives, and be a more integral part of the community. Funding is used to support an occupational therapy facility at the centre.	“The availability of funds from The American Ireland Fund has allowed us to install and equip an occupational therapy room. We have been able to provide specialist therapy addressing the children’s sensory integration needs. This has enabled the children to make considerable progress in their overall development.” David Quinn, Director
leitrim design house	Develops a network of artists and craftspeople who live and work in Leitrim and aim to foster sustainable businesses. Funding helps develop traditional arts and crafts at the local level.	“With the grant aid received from The American Ireland Fund, we were able to allocate a beautiful space in the old market centre, renovate it and develop it into a gallery/retail outlet for unique Irish craft exclusively created in County Leitrim. The Design House has been awarded by the Crafts Council of Ireland as a leading Irish craft retailer.” Anna-Marie O’Rourke, Project Manager
linen hall library	The oldest library in Belfast, which houses the definitive archive of the recent Troubles. Funding supports computer-based cataloguing and conservation of key collections.	“The generous donation from The American Ireland Fund has enabled us to preserve and conserve a number of important Irish maps from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and to repair and restore the bindings of a number of eighteenth and nineteenth century Irish books.” John Killen, Deputy Librarian
londonderry inner city trust	Promotes the relief of poverty and the advancement of education, particularly among young people, by providing training facilities for acquiring and developing occupational skills and work experience. Funding supports a 120-bed youth hostel on Magazine Street, Derry.	“Over many years The American Ireland Fund has supplied pump priming for the numerous projects of the Inner City Trust. This funding has enabled the Trust to draw down from other sources several million pounds, which has regenerated the bombed out heart of the inner walled city of Derry, created employment for both Catholic and Protestant young people, and created hope where none existed.” Patrick L. Doherty, Chief Executive
mater hospital trust	Offers emergency, in-patient, day-patient, and out-patient care in a socially and economically deprived area of Belfast. Funding helps sustain Dr. Eleanor Wheeler’s integrated art project, which involves psychiatric patients in creating mosaic and ceramic panels for the facility.	“Patient participation is part of the process of providing an aesthetic and relaxing environment for patients and visitors, helping to alleviate stress and creating a culture of healing. We feel this is key to the future development of the hospital.” Mary Maguire, Project Manager
maudabaun cultural centre	Aims to regenerate the rural economy through cultural tourism and to promote understanding between the differing identities in Ireland. Funding is used to construct a stone-walled, thatched building in the heart of the community.	“We were able to complete a section of our building thanks to funding from The American Ireland Fund.” Aogán O. Fearghail, Director
merchants quay project	A voluntary drug-treatment agency that provides crisis intervention, day support services, and residential programs. Funding supports the ongoing development of the St. Francis Farm initiative, a year-long residential project that blends educational and skills training with self-development in a rural farming environment.	“With the current economic climate it is difficult to access statutory funding sources for what they see as not being explicitly clinical treatment. We are relying on the support of The American Ireland Fund to enable us to develop the initiative until it is self-reliant.” Tony Geoghegan, Director
michael smurfit graduate school of business — ucd	A business school that offers one of the top-ranked MBA programmes in Europe. Funding is used by the Sharkey Chair to help establish Ireland as the European hub of eCommerce.	“The goal of the Smurfit School is to become one of the leading business schools. This will require substantial additional funding that will enable us to offer programmes similar to those offered by the better business schools in the U.S.” Maureen Clinton, Office of Administration
millennium integrated primary school	Founded by parents who see cross-community education as part of a future of genuine reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Funding provides a new classroom with books, story tapes, and a listening centre.	“Financial aid towards the pre-school play group, made possible by The AIF, has helped with enrollments and has provided pre-school education in an area where there was a shortfall in provision.” Mary Roulston, Principal
model arts & niland gallery	A gallery of local, national, and international significance, based in the former Model School National Building. Funding helps to purchase a museum standard lighting system for the gallery, which includes the most significant collection of Jack B. Yeats paintings outside the National Gallery of Ireland.	“In the future we would like to present the arts in an accessible way to young and old alike, to foster appreciation and to create it where there has been none, to stimulate learning and to reach out to the disadvantaged through art programmes.” Aoife Flynn, Executive Development Officer
móin fhionnúrach development association	Established to purchase, conserve, and manage the bog of Fenor for educational and recreational purposes. Funding is used to build a boardwalk, provide seating, erect information boards, and create wheelchair access.	“Grant aid received from The American Ireland Fund played an enormous part in bringing the Fenor Bog Project to fruition. The funding has helped to put in place an amenity/information area and install a boardwalk made of recycled plastic whilst protecting the existing habitat.” Rita Byrne, Secretary
mountmellick concert hall committee	A committee charged with restoring a historic theatre to be used as a centre for arts and culture. Funding covers the costs of refurbishing seating in the theatre.	“The American Ireland Fund’s grant meant everything to us because, in being able to do the most urgent work, we could open the doors for business and consequently generate funding of our own.” Kathleen Cussen, Honorary Secretary
muckross rowing club	Provides rowing facilities, equipment, and clothing for area youths and enables them to compete at local, national, and international regattas. Funding contributes to the ongoing development of the club.	“It is the goal of Muckross Rowing Club to continue its development of rowing in the Muckross area as a primary, healthy leisure occupation for our young people. The AIF can assist in this with the provision of seed capital which supplements the local input and voluntary work.” Maurice Coffey, Committee Member
national gallery of ireland	Houses the national collection of Irish and European master paintings. Funding is used to develop the Millennium Wing extension, which provides over 44,000 square feet of additional space with up-to-date exhibition facilities and improved amenities.	“The Millennium Wing opened to the public in January 2002 and since then over 1.3 million people have visited. Additional services now provided include: a programme of international exhibitions; a new print room and designated Yeats Archive; and a Centre for the Study of Irish Art.” Criona Cullen, Head of Development
newman institute ireland	A small, third-level college that offers post-graduate courses in counseling, marriage and family, community development, and the humanities. Funding contributes to a major international capital development programme.	“Generous contributions from The American Ireland Fund have made it possible to bridge the gap between the U.S. and Ireland by providing an on-line Masters course to people who now are practicing and teaching at local levels, and would not otherwise have had this opportunity.” Fr. Muredach Tuffy, Director
northern ireland children’s enterprise n.i.c.e.	Aims to promote peace, reconciliation, and mutual understanding in Northern Ireland by offering an enterprise that brings about 10,000 meetings between individuals of two Belfast communities. Funding is used to develop ongoing work with groups in community relations and volunteer training.	“ The grant from The AIF has helped to support our ongoing work in promoting reconciliation and understanding between the communities in Northern Ireland. Hundreds of friendships have been formed and relationships, which seemed impossible twenty years ago, have been firmly established.” Carmel McCavana, Executive Director
oakgrove integrated primary school	Strives to counteract increasing polarisation and segregation in the Derry community. Funding helps create an attractive playground environment in which children from different parts of the community can come together to play safely.	“The AIF was there with moral and financial help when it was most needed. This enabled parents to actualise their dream of having their Protestant and Catholic children educated together even when the Government withdrew their support and changed funding criteria.” Dr. Anne Murray, Principal
offaly historical and archaeological society	Aims to collect, interpret, exhibit, and preserve research materials and artifacts that document the history of the region. Funding is used to make the research facility more accessible.	“Future support will help us enhance our information-based website, improve our database on local history, and assist others with technical and editorial support for local history publications.” Michael Byrne, Secretary
omagh community house	A community house for local voluntary groups, located on the site of the bombing in Omagh. Funding supports the costs of construction.	“The American Ireland Fund has contributed significantly to the construction of a landmark building upon the site of devastation that was left after the Omagh bombing. It is because of The AIF that the most socially excluded and isolated individuals within our community can avail of the services provided by the Community House tenant organisations.” John Kerr, Manager
phab northern ireland inclusion matters	Offers integrated personal development training for disabled and nondisabled young people. Funding provides assistance with residential training costs.	“The AIF grant has helped us tremendously in expanding our disability awareness programme in schools and youth clubs throughout Northern Ireland. We were able to recruit and train volunteers as puppeteers, and have started to produce accompanying educational materials for young people who watch our shows.” Rainer Pagel, Director
queen’s university of belfast foundation	Supports Queen’s University, which has a record of academic achievement that stretches back more than 150 years. Funding helps establish the Chair of Poetry as part of the Seamus Heaney Centre for Poetry.	“The AIF grant helped us accelerate the recruitment and appointment of a high-profile person to the Chair of Poetry. This appointment will enable the Seamus Heaney Centre to leverage gifts more readily in the future.” Norma Sinte, Head of Corporate & Major Gifts Fundraising
roscommon travellers development group	Addresses policy issues of concern to Travellers, which include accommodation, education, youth, and equality. Funding covers the costs of fixtures, fittings, and furniture for the new community centre.	“We would greatly appreciate assistance towards a training project for young Travellers who have left school early. The training programme is hoped to be an educational project based on cultural sharing between Travellers, settled young people and non-EU nationals in Roscommon town.” Siobhán Noctor, Traveller Resource Worker
rosses point heritage association	Identifies and records the maritime, cultural, environmental, and archeological information of a cross-border community. Funding helps to stabilise the Old Pilot House.	“The restoration of the Old Pilot House at the headland was the most important of our targeted initiatives as it has direct links to Jack B. Yeats the painter and W. B. Yeats the poet.” Gerard Creamer, Secretary
royal college of surgeons in ireland	A medical school that dates from the 19th century and maintains the highest standards in education and training. Funding assists a study to improve clinical status in patients with multiple suicide attempts.	“The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland is an independent and financially self-reliant medical school; retaining our competitive advantage requires high investment in faculty, technology and infrastructure. The College relies heavily on support from donors both publicly and privately.” Prof. Kevin O’Malley, CEO/Registrar
royal irish academy of music	A place of musical education and excellence that consistently maintains the highest standards of performance and musical appreciation. Funding is used to renovate and fit out the existing performance areas.	“Funding from The American Ireland Fund has made it possible for the RIAM to offer its students, as well as members of the public, a concert hall for the twenty-first century.” Ciara Higgins, Public Relations/Concerts Manager
school of the holy cross	A primary school with a preschool and day care facility serving the needs of pupils in a disadvantaged area of Cork City. Funding is used to provide a playground within an enclosed area of the primary school grounds.	“As a result of the grants, we now have a beautiful, safe playground for our infant section. The children derive great enjoyment from it and are actively learning through play in a fun environment. The playground has also facilitated the development of confidence and tolerance among our pupils. It is one of the reasons that the children’s attendance here is excellent.” Orla Barry, School Principal
scouting ireland	Promotes the development of young people from both sides of the border in achieving their full potential — physically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Funding supports the purchase and development of Castle Saunderson Campsite on the border between North and South.	“Without The American Ireland Fund, the Castle Saunderson Project’s fundraising initiatives would never have gotten off the ground. Having The AIF endorse our project gave us credibility when approaching potential donors and opened doors that would never have been possible for us to open alone.” Mary Farrell, Project Development Coordinator
seanchaí-kerry literary & cultural centre	Preserves and promotes Ireland’s rich literary history. Funding supports work on the writers’ exhibition and the development of the archival library.	“The Centre is developing a programme of third-level accredited literary and cultural programmes in association with the Institute of Technology, Tralee and the University of Limerick, targeted primarily at students in the USA and Europe. The support of The American Ireland Fund in promoting these programmes overseas will greatly assist in the development of Seanchaí as a centre of education into the future.” Cara Trant, Manager
skibbereen rowing club	A rowing club founded in 1970 that has members from Skibbereen Parish and surrounding parishes. Funding is used towards construction of a new boat house, gymnasium fitout, and gym equipment.	"The American Ireland Fund has made a great difference to our club as it has enabled us to promote and develop an awareness of the benefits of sport to the health of a community. Young people from a geographically disadvantaged area with a history of rural depopulation and emigration have been nurtured to experience an enthusiasm for sport and a sense of personal value and achievement.” Bridie O’Donoghue, Secretary
society of st. vincent de paul	An international voluntary Christian organisation working with the poor and disadvantaged. Funding is used to purchase a suite of computers that will enhance internal/external communications throughout the organisation, both in Belfast/Derry and other SVP outreach centres.	“The new equipment purchased has enabled us to centralise our accounts, bank through an electronic banking system, provide a statistical research facility with Internet access and link with our many projects throughout the Northern Ireland region.” Aileen Coney, Regional Administrator
special olympics world summer games 2003	Provides a unique and unparalleled sporting and cultural experience for the athletes taking part, their coaches and families, and the volunteers, combining the excitement of sport with the opportunity for personal distinction and pride. Funding is used for both general running costs and the Sponsor an Athlete program, through which The AIF supports an individual athlete during the Games.	“Moving forward, the Games Organising Committee is responsible for ensuring that the legacy of the Games is built on. Over the next four years the organisation aims to grow the number of athletes 100% — from 8,000 to 16,000. Special Olympics Ireland would be delighted to continue what has been a fruitful and mutually beneficial relationship with The American Ireland Fund.” Mary Davis, CEO
speedwell trust	Brings together children from segregated schools and housing estates to work on environmental programmes. Funding supports the cost of programme materials for the children.	“The American Ireland Fund’s support is helping Speedwell to develop and support partnerships between Catholic and Protestant children from some of the most bitterly sectarian areas of Northern Ireland. In doing so it is helping the children build the peace to ensure a better future for us all.” Jean Kelly, Director
springboard opportunities	Provides opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds to strengthen communities through public service and help foster the creation of a new social infrastructure. Funding goes towards educational awards.“	Support from The American Ireland Fund has helped Springboard provide a unique opportunity for 12 disadvantaged young people and 12 groups working in disadvantaged areas. Through the Urban Service Project, young people strengthened disadvantaged communities through public service, developing leadership skills and an understanding of cultural diversity.” Angila Chada, Manager
st. columb’s cathedral	The oldest building in Londonderry [built in 1633], and widely recognised for its active promotion of ecumenical and bridge-building activities. Funding helps refurbish the Cathedral Organ.	“The grant from The American Ireland Fund has helped us continue with the restoration of the historic organ in the cathedral, which was vandalised in December 1994. If we can secure more funding, the organ will become an instrument of reconciliation in our city and far beyond by bringing together, through the medium of music, people who differ greatly from one another politically.” William Morton, Very Reverend Doctor
st. mark’s boys national school	Serves the community of the Glen, a highly disadvantaged area of Cork City. Funding supports school-based projects for parents, outdoor pursuits programmes, a gardening project, upkeep of the school building, art/drama projects, employment of tutors, and a speech/language therapy project.	“We will continue to provide new opportunities for our pupils. Opportunities they would not have without the financial assistance of The American Ireland Fund. Our goal is to make a difference.” David O’Connor, Principal
st. patrick’s college of education	Trains teachers on how to integrate technology into teaching, both in the classroom and on line. Funding is applied towards grants for creative educators who develop interactive, web-based curricula.	“The American Ireland Fund plays a key role in enabling us to provide teachers with the grants to develop and disseminate on-line curriculum units, which can be used by all teachers in Ireland and around the world free of charge.” Deirdre Butler, Project Director
st. vincent’s trust	Supports people of all ages who have experienced educational disadvantage by helping them realise their personal learning goals and participate in their communities. Funding pays to retain the services of a psychologist whose work is invaluable in assisting young people to cope with their many deep personal difficulties.	“St. Vincent’s Trust launched a new adult and community education service in January 2002. The number of participants registered for courses in 2003 is 180, and most courses have waiting lists. The type and variety of courses that can be offered is dependent on how we can raise funds as there is very limited public funding.” Anthony Cotterell, Accountant
taunagh select vestry	Maintains the buildings of Taunagh Parish Church in County Sligo. Funding supports the restoration of a valuable and historically important stained glass window transferred from a church in Leitrim.	“The grant from The American Ireland Fund was important for the preservation and installation of a stained glass window. Its beauty and design is now enjoyed by parishioners and visitors alike.” John Taylor, Director
the carline centre of learning	Provides training for young people ages 13–18 who are outside the mainstream educational system. Funding supports programmes for trainees and equipment needed in our classrooms, workshops, and general purpose areas.	“Our goal is to expand the service we are currently offering to our trainees. We would like to build a crèche to support our teenage moms and dads, and also to be utilized by the local community. Funding will always be used in the best interest of our trainees.” Fiona Murray, Centre Director
the safe-home programme	Repatriates elderly Irish emigrants who want to return home but lack the resources to do so. Funding pays for production of a video on New Ireland, induction packs, a conference, and newsletter-related costs.	Being able to reinforce our written material by face-to-face meetings is an invaluable part of the induction process and we thank The American Ireland Fund for making this possible.” Máirín Higgins,Program Director
the salvation army	Engages in a programme of practical concern for the needs of humanity. Funding contributes towards the provision of a safe, secure, and stimulating play space for young children who come from the most needy and deprived areas.	“The grant from The American Ireland Fund enabled the Thorndale Centre to construct a new boundary wall at the lower side of the Rowan complex, which allowed the leveling of the children’s play area. This produced a larger and much safer play facility for the Rowan families in addition to improved security.” Harriett Pointon, Divisional Director for Social Work
the spectrum centre	Contains a wide range of facilities for the community with an emphasis on youth work. Funding contributes towards the cost of employing an outreach worker who serves as a liaison with existing youth and community groups and encourages them to use our neutral environment.	“The Centre’s official opening was made possible through contributions from The American Ireland Fund. The development of the youth lounge area also benefited, bringing young people together for group work and personal development.” Heather Boyd, Manager
tipperary excel heritage	Provides access to a full range of artistic and cultural activities alongside heritage facilities and public service spaces. Funding supports the Ballet Ireland Workshop for children.	“The Excel’s primary goal is to become self-sufficient. However, this takes time and expertise. We plan to have a consultant employed by The American Ireland Fund to carry out an assessment and produce a strategy report for the arts in Tipperary. This assistance would be invaluable to the organisation.” Mary Sarsfield, General Manager
tyrone guthrie centre	Offers residencies to established professional artists from both parts of Ireland and abroad, and organises a Regional Bursary Scheme for younger emerging artists. Funding helps to further the capital development programme.	“The AIF has assisted us in developing our facilities for artists visual artists in particular, and in supporting periods of residency for writers, musicians and visual artists from all over the world.” Sheila Pratschke, Director
tyrrell trust	Aims to promote a better understanding of the two main cultural traditions in Ireland by using the historical Grange Castle site to illustrate the common bonds between Catholics and Protestants. Funding is used to restore the courtyard gates at Grange Castle.	“The Trust sees the participation of American young people in this project as being vital to its success, because American youth can bring to Ireland the culture of a country where the differences between Catholics and Protestants, indeed all religious differences, have long been successfully resolved. At the same time, by visiting Grange Castle, they can experience the history which they have in common with both their Irish and British contemporaries.” Grattan de Courcy-Wheeler, Director
university college cork foundation	Supports University College Cork, an internationally recognised and respected institution with a diverse faculty serving its 14,000 students and leading Ireland’s research efforts. Funding goes towards the construction of an art gallery and related programs to be carried on in the gallery.	“More and more buildings and laboratories at UCC are bearing the names of generous individuals whose gifts have been made possible through The American Ireland Fund and it is our firm intention to increase our interaction with such individuals. AIF grants have made and continue to make an enormous difference at UCC.” Dr. Jean van Sinderen-Law, Director of Development
upper andersonstown community forum	An amalgamation of 14 distinct community groups that promotes the ethos of community, economic, and cultural regeneration and provides day care, after-school programs, and training and education courses. Funding helps prepare a strategic five-year development plan.	“The Forum is continuously trying to build the social, community and economic infrastructure within the area. Assistance in creating and sustaining employment would be particularly welcome.” Patrick Wilson, Project Coordinator
valentia island branch committee of kerry parents & friends association	Provides fundraising, enhances community awareness, and arranges transport for the mentally handicapped in the area. Funding goes towards completion of the residential and day service facility for six adults now living in Killarney and 12 day attendees who will be in life-long care at this facility.	“Given that we live in an isolated rural area the most westerly inhabited island off the Irish coast, fundraising is limited. We got a huge lift and encouragement from the first grant Sir Tony O’Reilly matched it with his personal grant, and this set us up both financially and psychologically to keep going.” Rosaleen O’Connell, Chairperson
verbal arts centre	Stresses the creative and imaginative potential of language and consistently promotes the right of every person to be able to articulate his or her feelings, dreams, aspirations, and fears. Funding is used to complete the fitting out of the Centre’s coffee house, a meeting place that’s set on Derry’s historic walls.	“The AIF grant has allowed the Verbal Arts Centre to excavate and unlock the rich literary heritage of Ireland and use it to promote positive community relations.”
waterford & suir valley railway company	Works to construct a narrow-gauge railway experience that incorporates a railway heritage museum and recreates stations, signals, and bridges. Funding helps cover the costs of rail track, a train shed, and platforms.	“Eventually the track will be extended to Grattan Quay so that passengers may board and disembark the train in Waterford City Centre and use it as a commuter service. Grants are available from EU sources for capital work but we must provide 50% of the funding.” Maria Kyte, Manager
wave trauma centre	Offers a number of therapeutic and self-development programmes to help those bereaved or traumatised as a result of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Funding supports these programs, which include drop-in support, welfare advice, reflexology, aromatherapy, counseling, and massage.	“The need for safe and effective means in which individuals can tell/record their story is key to the long-term future of Northern Ireland. The organisation has piloted a number of storytelling projects which have been immensely beneficial. This fits firmly within a process of peace-building and working towards healing.” Sandra Peake, CEO
young irish film makers	Enables young people ages 8–18 to make their own film productions up to professional standards of excellence. Funding assists with scholarships, video equipment, and production costs.	“The American Ireland Fund helped us equip and organise the National Youth Film School, a major new initiative to set up youth film as an arts discipline throughout Ireland. Twenty-three young people from Ireland and Northern Ireland came together for five weeks in Kilkenny to make a feature film called ‘The Children’, which won the Dolphin Trophy at the Moondance Film Festival 2003 in Denver, Colorado.” Mike Kelly, Artistic Director