By: Denise Charlton, Community Foundation Ireland
The insights, wisdom and generosity of women and girls is always central in driving Community Foundation Ireland’s commitment to deliver for people, place and planet.
Through our work as a philanthropic hub we meet and work with extraordinary women every day. On the ground in communities, as researchers, advocates and philanthropists they lead and drive our equality mission.
All are bound by a shared vision, a belief in a society that is better, fairer and stronger. A belief that in an uncertain complex world will be fought for over the coming decade.
Hard‑won rights are under pressure. Digital misogyny, democratic backsliding, the rise of domestic and sexual violence are all taking place against a landscape of a planet which is itself under threat.
Resolve
Yet this is not a moment for despair. It is a moment for resolve. Across the world, women are not only responding to these challenges, but they are also redesigning the systems that created them.
They are leading climate‑justice movements, pioneering restorative approaches to peace and security, driving community‑resilience to strengthen entire societies and reshaping philanthropy.
Internationally their contribution is often misunderstood and understated in terms of being a source of allyship and support as well as the impact it can have in advancing equality.
The publication of ‘Women and Philanthropy in Ireland: From hidden presence to recognised influence’ is an opportunity to raise awareness while also encouraging others to follow a similar philanthropic journey.
The insights from the pioneering research by the Community Foundation in partnership with Trinity College Dublin must not just inform our next steps as a philanthropic hub but also the implementation of the wider National Policy on Philanthropy.
Values-led and Strategic
Women philanthropists shape the agenda for social change. Whether as individuals, as families or influencing corporate philanthropy their giving is intentional, relational, and rooted in justice.
The approach is transforming what philanthropy can be. What is striking is the thoughtful values led motivation not just in terms of financial support but that thirst to become informed, involved and to act on issues which hold a deep or personal resonance.
Often extending their contribution to offer their own life experience, skills and insight. This can be seen in the philanthropic support for work and projects to expand access to education, create opportunities for young people, strengthen families, and assisting those experiencing poverty, displacement, or violence. Impact is happening and lives are being transformed in every community.
The Future
Our world is hugely complex. Women-led philanthropy has an increasingly important role to play. It offers courage, vision and values when others shy away or are silent. We look forward to continuing the conversation with all who want to be part of its next chapter.