How Can You Contribute to the Irish Center?
People often ask me, “Liam, how can I help the Irish Center?” It’s a question with numerous answers, depending on how one wishes to assist. For some, simply becoming a member is a significant form of support. Yet, many potential supporters desire a deeper involvement, eager to align themselves with the organization’s mission. I always appreciate those unexpected encounters where someone taps me on the shoulder, expressing their desire to lend a hand. I have had several such moments in the past three years and many turned out to be great connections to help us in our efforts. Typically, these individuals possess skills that are useful to various aspects of our nonprofit endeavors.
Rebuilding Project
Now that we are moving forward with our rebuilding project, our new center will be a beacon of Irish culture, heritage, and community spirit. This ambitious project aims to provide a dynamic space for cultural events, educational programs, and community gatherings, serving as a hub for people of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate the richness of Irish heritage.
But to make this vision a reality, we need your help. We’re seeking volunteers who are willing to roll up their sleeves and contribute their time, energy, and expertise to the construction of our new center. If you have a passion for lending a helping hand, there’s a place for you on our team.
Volunteering with us isn’t just about building a physical structure – it’s about building community, forging connections, and leaving a lasting impact for generations to come. By joining our volunteer team, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals who share your love for Irish culture and your dedication to strengthening our community. After all, there are 750,000 Irish Americans in the Bay Area, each with a unique story to tell and a passion for preserving and celebrating our shared heritage.
Everyone is Welcome
No matter your skill level or background, there’s a role for you at the Irish Center. Whether you can commit to a few hours a week or a few days a month, your contribution will be valued and appreciated. Together, we can turn our vision for the future into a reality.
Got Talent?
Are you a professional with expertise in engineering, interior design, web management, finance, or other fields? The Irish Center is seeking individuals like you to lend your skills and knowledge to our volunteer team. As we work towards the construction and development of our new center, we recognize the value of having professionals on board who can contribute their expertise to various aspects of the project.
Whether you’re an experienced engineer who can help oversee construction plans; an interior designer with a flair for creating inviting and functional spaces; a web master who can maintain our engaging online presence; or a finance professional who can assist with budgeting and financial planning, your contributions are invaluable to our success.
Teamwork Impact
By joining our team of volunteers, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of the Irish Center and the communities we serve. Your expertise will help us create a vibrant and inclusive space that celebrates Irish culture, fosters community connections, and enriches the lives of all who enter our doors. Volunteering with us is not only a chance to showcase your skills and talents but also a way to give back to your community and be part of something truly special. Your contributions will be instrumental in shaping the future of the Irish Center and ensuring its success for years to come.
Join Us
If you’re ready to be a part of something truly special, we invite you to join us in building the future of the Irish Center. To learn more about volunteering and how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Thank you for considering this opportunity, and we look forward to welcoming you to our team as we work together to build a brighter future for the Irish Center and the communities we serve.
The UICC-sponsored Keepers of the Steps museum exhibition will be on display at the San Francisco Historical Society this month. The exhibition opened on Thursday February 29 in the historic “mint” building at 608 Commercial Street in the Financial District. The exhibition showcases the history of Irish Dance in the Bay Area since the 1850s. Well done to Eileen Mize, Anne Cassidy Carew, Ann Baglin, Noreen Boyle, Jennifer Drennan, Jamie O’Keefe, and Kathleen McKeon for their tireless work in taking the exhibition to a wider audience.
Our St. Patrick’s sub-committee members have spent the last several weeks preparing for the busy March season. Pre-planning began in January, led by Aileen Dulohery and Board members headed up by Josephine Brogan and a team of volunteers. There is something for everyone who is Irish this month at the Center. We welcome harpist Patrick Ball, the Black Brothers, Vince Keehan and Friends, The Hooks, and a host of musicians on March 16 and 17, not to mention all the local dance schools that will be performing throughout March.
We host the annual Green Fest Block Party on March 17 with our partners the United Irish Societies, Java Beach, and Cooley-Keegan Comhaltas. Ivor Collins, the Irish Pipers, and a number of Irish dancers are just some of the entertainers lined up for the day. We will have face painting for the kids as well. Party starts at 11:00am and runs until 5:00pm.
Drama, sport, art, and music will feature again in this year’s summer camp. Additional offerings include website development, digital animation, and computer programming. Registration is now open for early bird pricing. The camp runs from June 8 to June 28. Sign up by March 17 for the Early Bird Special of $350/week.
Boxing returns to the Center on March 9 featuring local amateur boxers. Boxing is popular in the Outer Sunset. This event is being held as a partnership with Fire in the Ring Boxing based in Brisbane.
Applications for our annual scholarship program are now open for 8th Graders and High School Seniors entering the next level of their education. Completed applications are due on March 17, delivered to the Irish Center. You can also sponsor a scholarship in your name or in the name of a loved one.
Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh!
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Liam Reidy, President
lreidy@irishcentersf.org