The Women’s Fund at The Community Foundation for Ireland
Published: Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Background:
In April 2010 a major seminar on women's philanthropy took place in Dublin. At this, The Women's Fund for Ireland was launched by The Community Foundation for Ireland.
When women and girls prosper, entire communities succeed. The Women's Fund for Ireland fuels change in our communities by supporting the most innovative and positive solutions to the issues facing women in Ireland today. It's mission is to encourage philanthropy among women, improve the lives of women through social change grantmaking, and educate the entire community about the benefits to society when the the potential of women is realised.
Women's Funds have developed around the world in recent years. They seek to transform individuals and tackle invisible problems. Women play a crucial role in creating and sustaining strong communities but there are often barriers which prevent their participation or engagement with local opportunities, or stop them fulfilling their potential to play a role within the broader community. They may struggle to get their voice heard in order to influence decisions that affect them, their families and communities.
The need to establish new sources of funding for initiatives for women in Ireland is critical, in part as a result of reducing public sector subsidies. The new Women's Fund creates a unique opportunity for donors to provide financial support to benefit women's initiatives in Ireland now and for generations to come.
The Fund is being run under the umbrella of The Community Foundation for Ireland. Grant-making priorities will evolve as needs change and the fund grows. The Fund will focus on problems encountered by women but will also look at empowerment opportunities for women.
Click here to view the application pack