Our Story

The Irish Youth Foundation was founded in 1985, born from a simple belief: every child deserves a fair chance. 

Our founder, Norma Smurfit, saw the growing challenges faced by children living in poverty and decided to act. What started as a vision to support vulnerable young people has grown into a nationwide movement of hope and opportunity.

Today, 1 in 5 children in Ireland live in poverty, a reality that shapes futures before they even begin. At the Irish Youth Foundation, we believe this is unacceptable. For 40 years, we’ve stood alongside communities to change that story.

From homework clubs that keep children on track, to mental health supports that give hope, to skills programs that open doors to employment, our work is about creating opportunity where it’s needed most. Behind every project is a child with potential, and behind every child is a community that cares.

We don’t just fund programs; we invest in futures. We champion resilience, confidence, and possibility. And we do it because we know that when young people thrive, Ireland thrives.

40 years of impact

For four decades, the Irish Youth Foundation has stood with children and young people facing the greatest challenges. Our impact can be measured in number, but its true meaning is found in real lives transformed.

€30 million in funding

That’s thousands of moments where a child felt safe, supported, and believed in.

2,500 projects nationwide

Each one creating opportunities for learning, confidence, creativity, and connection.

100,000 children supported

One hundred thousand young people who now have brighter futures because someone invested in their potential.

Behind every number is a story, a child who felt seen, a teenager who found hope, a community strengthened.

And we’re only getting started.