About the Irish Youth Foundation
The Irish Youth Foundation is a registered charity and grant making foundation in the Republic of Ireland dedicated solely to meeting the needs of children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
We do this by supporting a wide range of outstanding projects and organisations across the country and by working closely with Ireland’s dedicated youth workers and project leaders to help give Ireland’s underrepresented young people the tools needed to reach their full potential in life.
All our funds are raised through donations from people like you. Philanthropic individuals and companies who want to reverse the social and personal damage caused by poverty, educational disadvantage, homelessness and social exclusion, and are committed to working towards a fairer, more inclusive Ireland.
Our growing impact
raised
Over the last 4 years
projects supported
young people impacted
As a teenager with goals and ambitions it was amazing to have an adult believe in you and give you backing. When it came time for me to do the Leaving Cert, Declan had a room made up for me with a table and chair to do study. Just having this private space to study was a goldmine as there was no way I could study in the flats. I graduated from UCD with first class honours and won thesis of the Year.
I can honestly say that my career and life today would not be possible if it were not for the work that Declan and his team do.
Head Physiotherapist,
Scoliosis Unit at Temple Street Children’s Hospital
Chief Executive
As CEO of the Irish Youth Foundation, Sarah is committed to advancing the organisations initiatives that foster inclusion and personal growth, ensuring we are levelling the playing field for all young people in Ireland.
Before taking on the role as CEO, Sarah had been with the Irish Youth Foundation for seven years, during which time she led the organisations fundraising activities and most recently led the design and delivery of the Irish Youth Foundations grants and programmes.
Sarah brings a wealth of experience in non-profit management, community engagement, and strategic fundraising. She is passionate about creating pathways for young people to succeed, particularly those facing economic, social, or personal challenges. With a deep commitment to supporting children and young people experiencing poverty and disadvantage, Sarah plays a pivotal role in helping the Irish Youth Foundation deliver its mission across Ireland.
Prior to the Irish Youth Foundation, Sarah worked in private practice as a psychotherapist as well as in hospitality sales and events, in both The Shelbourne and The Merrion Hotel.
Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from UCC and an MA in Psychotherapy from DBS.
