New fund aims to create fairer society

A new fund launched this week aims to combat social and economic exclusion.

The Resilient Cork Fund, created by Rethink Ireland, aims to create a fairer and more inclusive society, supporting people in disadvantaged and marginalised communities, including but not limited to, young people, women and minority groups, and encouraging social connections. It also focuses on improving mental health by supporting projects that build resilience.

Pádraic Vallely, Senior Philanthropy and Development Manager, Rethink Ireland, said: “Through the Resilient Cork Fund we are actively mobilising philanthropy in the Cork region to accelerate positive change for people experiencing social and economic disadvantage, by backing community-led social innovators.

“The end goal is a just, equal and sustainable Ireland. The fund will back the most innovative organisations working directly with marginalised communities and minority groups to overcome the social and economic barriers they face.”

The Resilient Cork Fund is created by Rethink Ireland in partnership with several philanthropic donors in the Cork region including the Luan Fund, Tomar Trust, The Ireland Funds, The Montenotte Hotel, a private donor, and the Department of Rural and Community Development via the Dormant Accounts Fund.

Mr Vallely added: “We want to thank all of the donors to this fund - Social innovation is a team sport and this is a great example of philanthropy in action. Place-based giving is a key element of Rethink Ireland’s approach to social impact, very much centred around the social element - the ‘S’ in ESG. We invite donors who are visionary and passionate about where they come from, to invest back into the future of their own local communities where they know intimately the challenges and potential of their people.”

Rhona Coughlan, Artistic Director of Inclusive Dance Cork, said: “We received an award from a previous Rethink Ireland Fund to launch a pilot Inclusive Dance Cork Programme with the aim of overcoming barriers and challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing professional/accredited dance training. Backing from Rethink Ireland, with a focus on equality, resulted in an inclusive programme that has transformed the lives of programme participants and enhanced the lives of people both with and without disabilities.”

Visit rethinkireland.ie for more.