The Ireland Funds is a global philanthropic network established in 1976 to promote and support peace, culture, education and community development throughout the island of Ireland, and Irish-related causes around the world. With chapters in 12 countries, The Ireland Funds has raised over $600 million for deserving causes in Ireland and beyond, benefiting more than 3,200 different organizations. To
day, The Ireland Funds is an active international network. Ireland Funds in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, New Zealand, Japan, Monaco, China, Singapore and The United States are uniting the aspirations of the Irish diaspora, a global community of more than 70 million people.
:: History ::
On the occasion of his visit to Ireland in 1963, President John F. Kennedy joined with Irish President Eamonn de Valera to form The American Irish Foundation. The mission of this organization was to foster connections between Americans of Irish descent and the country of their ancestry. In 1976, Dr. Anthony J.F. O'Reilly, former President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of H.J. Heinz Co., created The Ireland Fund with friend and fellow Pittsburgh businessman Dan Rooney, owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers football team and now U.S. Ambassador to Ireland. With a trinity of goals--Peace, Culture and Charity--The Ireland Fund appealed for support for Ireland and its people from all Americans, and especially those of Irish descent. Over the following decade, The Ireland Fund formed a thriving fundraising network of chapters in cities across the United States. Patrick's Day 1987, The Ireland Fund and the American Irish Foundation merged at a White House ceremony to form The American Ireland Fund and became the nation's and the world's largest private organization funding constructive change throughout the island of Ireland
