Landmark Study on Women's Philanthropy Launched in Ireland

• Study with title Women and Philanthropy in Ireland launched
• Conducted by Trinity Business School’s Centre for Social Innovation
• Focuses on women’s philanthropy in Ireland

A comprehensive research report on "Women and Philanthropy in Ireland: From Obscured Presence to Recognised Effect" conducted by the Centre for Social Innovation at Trinity Business School with assistance from the Community Foundation Ireland and Trinity Development and Alumni has been compiled by examining existing literature, consulting with international specialists and by performing 38 semi-structured interviews with 30 female philanthropists and 8 philanthropic advisors.

The launch of the study was on March 4th, by Mary McAleese, the Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin and Former President of the Republic of Ireland.

The findings of this study include information about how women engage with philanthropic activities and their motivations to do so; as well as the factors that contribute to women choosing to be involved with philanthropy.

The report provides new insights into women’s philanthropy, their engagement and their influence and leadership in Ireland and sheds light on previously unexplored areas surrounding women’s philanthropic activity.

Philanthropy in Ireland has historically been based on community, religious, and volunteering principles and is something the nation is proud of. However, the academic and policy arenas have neglected the examination of women as philanthropists.

Dr. Gemma Donnelly-Cox, Associate Professor of the Centre for Social Innovation and who conducted the research with Dr. Maeve Houlihan, says women’s philanthropic behaviour in Ireland is "values based, personal, strategic and involves both financial contributions and also giving of one’s time, network and advocacy."

Women throughout history tend to focus on addressing systemic issues, supporting long-term solutions, and creating community through local, national, and global solutions.

Philanthropy is often a journey, beginning with early experiences, development of trust, engagement with organizations, and creating a legacy.

“Women philanthropists are positively impacting the outcomes achieved in areas such as trauma support, safety from gender-based violence, education, volunteers and employment,” said Denise Charlton, CEO, Community Foundation Ireland.

“A woman’s motivations for philanthropy are based on her values, experience, and the desire to learn about social issues. Women’s contributions go beyond financial support to include women’s skills, knowledge and leadership.”

Dr. Linda Doyle, Provost Trinity College Dublin, agrees that women’s contributions to the world of philanthropy should be acknowledged, and there is still a need to research and analyze this area.