Hazel Hennessy
Head of Communications and Relationships, Philanthropy Ireland
Philanthropy can bring families closer, strengthen values, and unite generations in creating real change for communities and causes they care about.
At Philanthropy Ireland, we believe philanthropy is more than giving; it’s a powerful force connecting generations.
Deepening bonds through shared giving
Positive Ageing Week is the perfect moment to highlight how philanthropy becomes a source of good within families, deepening relationships and sparking conversations about what truly matters.
Among our members, family philanthropy takes many shapes. Some families come together to choose causes to support now or support in the future through legacy giving. Others establish foundations, trusts or donor-advised funds for long-term impact.
No matter the format, philanthropy offers families a chance to understand each other’s motivations and priorities on a deeper level, coming together to work on different projects as a unit or providing opportunities for family members to lead out on specific pieces of work that reflect their own passions and strengths.
Positive Ageing Week is the perfect moment
to highlight how philanthropy becomes
a source of good within families.
Passing on values and responsibility
Many philanthropists involve younger family members in their giving, not just to instil values like empathy and community service but also to teach important lessons about wealth, responsibility and the significance of giving back.
Second and third-generation philanthropists are stepping up, carrying forward family traditions while engaging with issues they care about in fresh and personal ways. They’re blending respect for family legacy with a desire to address today’s pressing social challenges.
Supporting families to give well
Giving effectively isn’t always simple. Ensuring philanthropic funds truly create positive change requires thought and planning. The philanthropy community in Ireland is growing, but so are the opportunities and support structures for philanthropy. At Philanthropy Ireland, we’re striving to support our members to increase their impact, discover ways to engage multiple generations and connect with peers who share similar journeys.
There’s no single blueprint for philanthropy, but there’s a wealth of learning to draw from the experiences of families across Ireland who are doing fantastic work. During Positive Ageing Week, we celebrate philanthropy’s role in bridging generations, strengthening family bonds and building a legacy of hope and community impact.
